Systems and methods for detecting abnormalities in electrical and electrochemical energy units

ABSTRACT

A method for abnormality detection in an energy unit includes passively detecting an abnormality in an energy unit by detecting electromagnetic radiation generated by the abnormality, the energy unit comprising at least one of an electrical energy unit and an electrochemical energy unit. A method for detecting an abnormality in an energy unit includes (a) applying a signal to the energy unit, (b) performing a plurality of measurements, at a respective plurality of different locations within the energy unit, of a response of the energy unit to the signal, and (c) processing the plurality of measurements to identify the abnormality.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/211,381, filed Mar. 14, 2014, which claims the benefit ofpriority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/782,558, filed Mar.14, 2013, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/782,657, filed Mar.14, 2013, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties.

BACKGROUND

This invention is in the field of electrical and electrochemical devicesfor storing or harnessing energy. This invention relates generally tomanagement of such devices to reduce the severity of consequences ofabnormalities occurring or existing in the devices. Batteries are aprominent example of a type device to which this invention relates.

As battery technology development has progressed, the use of batteries,particularly rechargeable batteries, as a power source has increasedsubstantially. Batteries are used as power sources for a wide array ofdevices including relatively low-power devices, such as consumerelectronics devices, and higher-power devices, such as electric cars.Lithium ion batteries are the most widely used form of rechargeablebattery. An Achilles heel of lithium ion batteries is the risk of anelectrical short developing inside a lithium ion battery cell and theconsequences associated therewith. An electrical short may cause rapidheating of the battery cell. In the matter of seconds, the localtemperature at the location of the short may rise to temperaturessufficient to set the battery on fire. This is particularly worrisome inthe case of high-capacity lithium ion battery systems, such as thoseused in electric cars. To reduce the danger associated with electricalshorts and other abnormalities in lithium ion batteries, some batterysystems use a battery management system for monitoring the state ofcharge and/or the state of health of the battery system. Monitoring istypically based upon measurements of properties such as the terminalvoltage of the battery system and/or the temperature of the batterysystem.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides methods and systems for detectingabnormalities in energy devices, such as electrochemical cells,capacitors, solar panels, and arrays, units and systems comprising suchenergy devices, to ensure the energy devices possess an adequate stateof safety or state of health such that continued operation of the energydevices does not result in the development of a dangerous, hazardous orotherwise unsafe condition. If such an abnormality is detected, safetymeasures can be undertaken to take the energy device exhibiting theabnormality offline or otherwise place the energy device in a safe orinert condition, such as by exposing the energy device to a coolant.Methods and systems of the invention optionally employ a technique wherea signal, such as an electric, magnetic or electromagnetic signal, isgenerated by the energy device upon development of an abnormality, suchas an electrical short circuit or sudden release of current, and thesignal is detected by a sensor, such as a pickup coil. Methods anddevices of the invention optionally employ a technique where a signal,such as an electric, magnetic or electromagnetic signal, is applieddirectly or indirectly to the energy device, and an electrical conditionof the energy unit that changes in response to the signal is sensed,such as a change in voltage, current, capacitance, inductance,resistance or impedance, to allow for detection of an abnormality in theenergy device.

In an embodiment, a method for abnormality detection in an energy unitincludes passively detecting an abnormality in an energy unit bydetecting electromagnetic radiation generated by the abnormality, theenergy unit comprising at least one of an electrical energy unit and anelectrochemical energy unit.

In an embodiment, a system for detecting an abnormality in an electricalor electrochemical energy unit includes a sensor for generating a sensorsignal in response to electromagnetic radiation and a processing modulefor processing the sensor signal to isolate a signal feature indicativeof the abnormality.

In an embodiment, an energy storage system with abnormality detectioncapability includes at least one energy storage device for generatingelectricity from stored energy, wherein the stored energy is at leastone of electrical energy and chemical energy, and a sensor forgenerating a sensor signal in response to electromagnetic radiationgenerated by an electrical abnormality in the energy storage system.

In an embodiment, a method for detecting an abnormality in an energyunit includes (a) applying a signal to the energy unit, (b) performing aplurality of measurements, at a respective plurality of differentlocations within the energy unit, of a response of the energy unit tothe signal, and (c) processing the plurality of measurements to identifythe abnormality.

In an embodiment, a system for detecting an abnormality in an energyunit includes a transmitter unit for applying a signal to the energyunit, a plurality of sensing units for performing a respective pluralityof measurements of properties of the energy unit, and a processingmodule for processing the plurality of measurements to identify theabnormality.

In an embodiment, an energy storage system with abnormality detectioncapability includes (a) a plurality of energy storage devices forgenerating electricity from stored energy, the stored energy being atleast one of electrical energy and chemical energy, (b) an interface forreceiving an electrical signal, and (c) a plurality of electricalsensing units, positioned at a respective plurality of differentlocations within the energy storage system, for performing measurementsof properties of the energy storage system, the electrical measurementsindicative of a response to the electrical signal.

In a first aspect, provided are methods for abnormality detection in anenergy unit. A method of this aspect comprises the steps of passivelydetecting an abnormality in an energy unit by detecting electromagneticradiation generated by the abnormality, the energy unit comprising atleast one of an electrical energy unit and an electrochemical energyunit. In an embodiment, the step of detecting electromagnetic radiationcomprises generating a sensor signal in response to the electromagneticradiation; and processing the sensor signal to isolate a signal featureindicative of the abnormality in the energy unit. In an embodiment, theelectromagnetic radiation is generated by the abnormality uponoccurrence of the abnormality. Optionally, methods of this aspectfurther comprise measuring properties of the energy unit, such as one ormore of temperature, voltage, resistance, current, capacitance,impedance, magnetic susceptibility, pressure, and response of the energyunit to an applied electrical signal, to detect the abnormality. In anembodiment, for example, a method of this aspect comprises passivelydetecting the abnormality in less than 10 milliseconds after occurrenceof the abnormality.

The methods, devices and systems described herein are useful fordetection of abnormalities in a variety of systems. In embodiments, forexample, each of the electrical energy unit and the electrochemicalenergy unit comprise at least one of an energy storage system and anenergy harnessing system. Optionally, the energy unit comprises at leastone of an electrochemical cell, a capacitor cell, an ultra-capacitorcell, a flow battery, and a fuel cell. Optionally, the energy unitcomprises a plurality of electrically connected energy storage devices.Optionally, each of the plurality of electrically connected energystorage devices is at least one of an electrochemical cell, a capacitorcell, an ultra-capacitor cell, a flow battery, and a fuel cell.Optionally, the energy unit comprises at least a portion of a batterysystem in a vehicle.

The methods, devices and systems described herein are useful fordetection of a variety of abnormalities. In an embodiment, for example,the step of passively detecting the abnormality comprises passivelydetecting a short in an energy storage device in the energy unit. In aspecific embodiment, the step of passively detecting the abnormalitycomprises passively detecting a short in an electrical connection in theenergy unit. In a specific embodiment, the step of passively detectingthe abnormality comprises passively detecting a change in state ofhealth of the energy unit.

The methods, devices and systems described herein optionally includedetection of signal features indicative of an abnormality. In a specificembodiment, the signal feature is a single pulse. In another embodiment,the signal feature comprises one or more pulses, each having a durationless than 100 microseconds. In a specific embodiment, the signal featurecomprises one or more pulses, each having a duration less than 10milliseconds. Optionally, the signal feature comprises a non-repetitivesignal.

Methods, devices and systems of various embodiments the inventionadvantageously provide the ability to spatially locate the abnormality.Such a technique offers benefits of being able to selectively determinewhich of a plurality of energy devices in an energy unit or system isexperiencing an abnormality, such as a short or a change in state ofhealth. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention furthercomprise spatially locating the abnormality. For example, in oneembodiment, the step of passively detecting the abnormality comprisessensing electromagnetic radiation at a plurality of different locationsto generate a respective plurality measurements; and the step ofspatially locating comprises comparing the plurality of measurements.Optionally, the step of spatially locating further comprises utilizinginformation about configuration of the energy unit. For variousembodiments, the step of sensing comprises measuring a magnitude of theelectromagnetic radiation at the plurality of different locations. In anexemplary embodiment, the step of sensing comprises measuring, at theplurality of different locations, magnitudes of the electromagneticradiation; and deducing information about direction of electricalcurrent generating the electromagnetic radiation.

In a specific embodiment, methods of the invention comprising a step ofpassively detecting the abnormality comprise sensing the electromagneticradiation at only one location. In an embodiment, for example, the stepof sensing comprises sensing the electromagnetic radiation at only onelocation using a sensor sensitive to electromagnetic radiation generatedfrom electrical current of arbitrary direction.

Methods, devices and systems described herein optionally includecomponents and techniques for generating sensor signals in response toelectromagnetic radiation generated by an abnormality. In oneembodiment, such a generating step comprises generating an electricalsignal induced by the electromagnetic radiation. For example, in oneembodiment, the electrical signal is induced by the electromagneticradiation in at least one pickup coil. Optionally, the electrical signalis induced by the electromagnetic radiation in at least one magneticallysensitive detector.

Advantageously, methods, devices and systems of the invention allow forabnormally operating devices to be located, isolated and/or renderedinto a safe configuration, such as a configuration where heat generatedwithin the abnormally operating device does not pose a risk of fire. Ina specific embodiment, for example, methods of this aspect comprisesteps of communicating detection of the abnormality to a control unitfor the energy unit; and invoking a control measure to at least aportion of the energy unit associated with the abnormality, such as acontrol measure to cool the energy unit, a control measure to take theenergy unit off-line or a control measure to discharge the energy unit.

Optionally, methods of this aspect further comprise steps of generatinga second sensor signal, in response to the abnormality, using at leastone sensor electrically connected with the energy unit. Optionally, astep of processing the sensor signal to isolate a signal featureindicative of the abnormality comprises processing the sensor signal andthe second sensor signal to isolate the signal feature.

In another aspect, the present invention provides systems for detectingan abnormality in an energy unit. A specific embodiment of this aspectcomprises a sensor for generating a sensor signal in response toelectromagnetic radiation; and a processing module for processing thesensor signal to isolate a signal feature indicative of the abnormality.Sensors useful with the systems, devices and methods include sensorsthat are magnetically sensitive, such that the sensor signal ismagnetically induced by electromagnetic radiation generated by anabnormality. In a specific embodiment, the sensor comprises at least onepickup coil. Optionally, the pickup coil comprises a planar pickup coil.Optionally, the pickup coil comprises a non-planar pickup coil. In oneembodiment, a non-planar pickup coil is useful for generation of asensor signal in response to electromagnetic radiation generated fromelectrical current of arbitrary direction, making such a non-planarpickup coil useful for detection of abnormalities anywhere in an energyunit. Optionally, sensors useful with the systems, devices and methodsof the invention comprise at least one toroidal inductor.

For various systems, devices and methods of the invention, a pluralityof sensing units are used together to detect signals indicative of anabnormality in an energy unit. In one embodiment, the sensor comprises aplurality of sensing units positioned at a respective plurality ofdifferent locations for generation of a respective plurality ofcomponents of the sensor signal. In a specific embodiment, for example,the processing module comprises a processor and instructions for, whenexecuted by the processor, analyzing the plurality of components todetermine the location of the electrical abnormality. Optionally, theinstructions comprise information about a configuration of the energyunit and the sensor, such as a spatial arrangement of components of theenergy unit and a spatial arrangement of the sensor(s) relative to thecomponents of the energy unit. Optionally, one or more of the pluralityof sensing units comprise a pickup coil. Optionally, one or more of theplurality of sensing units comprise a planar pickup coil. Optionally,one or more of the plurality of sensing units comprise a toroidalinductor.

For various systems, devices and methods of the invention, electricalsensors are used to detect an abnormality in an energy unit. Forexample, in one embodiment a system of this aspect further comprises anelectrical sensor, electrically connected with the energy unit, fordetecting an electrical signal generated by the abnormality andgenerating a second sensor signal in response to detection of theelectric signal; and wherein the processing module includes instructionsfor processing the sensor signal and the second sensor signal toidentify the abnormality. Optionally, the sensor comprises a pluralityof sensing units positioned at a respective plurality of differentlocations and the electrical sensor comprises a plurality of electricalsensing units positioned at a respective plurality of differentlocations, with the processing module comprising instructions forprocessing the sensor signal and the second sensor signal to locate theabnormality.

In some method, system and device embodiments, transmitter units areutilized to apply a signal, such as electromagnetic radiation, anelectric field or a magnetic field, to an energy unit to induceformation of a signal feature, amplify an abnormality or otherwise allowan abnormality to be detected. For example, one system embodimentfurther comprises a transmitter unit for applying a signal to the energyunit to induce formation of the signal feature. Optionally, thetransmitter unit is electrically connected with the energy unit and thesignal comprises an electrical signal. Optionally, the transmitter unitcomprises an emitter of electromagnetic radiation and the signalcomprises electromagnetic radiation. In a specific embodiment, thesensor comprises at least one sensing unit for sensing electromagneticradiation and the transmitter unit comprises one or more of the sensingunits, such as a pickup coil.

Optionally, devices, systems and methods of the invention utilizewireless transmission of data between a sensor signal and a processingmodule to allow the processing module to be remotely located from anenergy unit and/or sensor. For example, a specific system embodimentfurther comprises circuitry for wirelessly transmitting the sensorsignal to the processing module.

In another aspect, the present invention provides an energy storagesystem with abnormality detection capability. One embodiment of such asystem comprises at least one energy storage device for generatingelectricity from stored energy, the stored energy being at least one ofelectrical energy and chemical energy; and a sensor for generating asensor signal in response to electromagnetic radiation generated by anelectrical abnormality in the energy storage system. In a specificembodiment, the energy storage system comprises a battery for a vehicle.For example, in one embodiment the energy storage system comprises alithium ion battery. Optionally, the energy storage device of such anenergy storage system comprises an an electrolytic battery cell.Optionally, the energy storage system comprises a plurality of energystorage devices with each of the plurality of energy storage devicescomprising one or more battery cells. Optionally, the energy storagedevices comprise one or more capacitor cells and/or one or moreultra-capacitor cells. In a specific embodiment, each energy storagedevice independently comprises a plurality of energy storage devices,with each of the plurality of energy storage devices comprising acapacitor cell or an ultra-capacitor cell.

For various systems and devices of the invention, the sensors used todetect abnormalities in an energy device or energy storage systeminclude those capable of detecting electrical and/or magnetic signals.For example, in one energy storage system embodiment, the sensorcomprises at least one magnetically sensitive sensing unit, such thatthe sensor signal is magnetically induced by electromagnetic radiation.For example, in an embodiment, each magnetically sensitive sensing unitindependently comprises a pickup coil, such as a planar pickup coil or anon-planar pickup coil. In one embodiment, the pickup coil is non-planarand is useful for generating a sensor signal in response toelectromagnetic radiation generated from electrical current of arbitrarydirection. Optionally, the pickup coil comprises a planar pickup coil.Optionally, a magnetically sensitive unit is positioned on an energystorage device. Optionally, a magnetically sensitive sensing unitcomprises a toroidal inductor.

Optionally, a plurality of magnetically sensitive sensing units isutilized with the devices, systems an methods of the invention. In oneembodiment, a plurality of magnetically sensitive sensing units arepositioned at a respective plurality of different locations, with thesensor signal comprising spatial location information about theelectrical abnormality.

Optionally, energy storage systems of the invention further comprise ahousing, with at least a portion of one or more magnetically sensitivesensing units being implemented in the housing. Optionally, least onemagnetically sensitive sensing unit is positioned at an energy storagedevice or system, such as on a surface of the energy storage device orsystem or on a surface of the housing of the energy storage device orsystem. Optionally, a magnetically sensitive sensing unit is positionedat an electrical connection to an energy storage device or is positionedin electrical communication with the energy storage device. Optionally,a plurality of magnetically sensitive sensing units comprise a first setof magnetically sensitive sensing units and a second set of magneticallysensitive sensing units, the first set of magnetically sensitive unitshaving different spatial separation than the second set of magneticallysensitive units, such as a greater or lesser spatial separation. Such aconfiguration advantageously allows for flexibility in the fabricationof the systems and devices of the invention.

Optionally, devices, systems and methods of the invention utilizewireless transmission of data between a sensor signal and a remotesystem to allow a processing module to be remotely located from thesystem and/or sensor. For example, a specific system embodiment furthercomprises circuitry for wirelessly transmitting the sensor signal to aremote system. Optionally, the remote system comprises a processingmodule for processing the sensor signal to identify the abnormality.

Various embodiments of the systems, methods and devices of the inventionutilize electrical sensors electrically connected with an energy storagedevice for detecting an electrical signal generated by an abnormality.For example, one energy storage system embodiment further comprises anelectrical sensor, electrically connected with the at least one energystorage device, for detecting an electrical signal generated by theabnormality. Optionally, a sensor comprises a plurality of sensing unitspositioned at a respective plurality of different locations and theelectrical sensor comprises a plurality of electrical sensing unitspositioned at a respective plurality of different locations.

In embodiments, an energy storage system further comprises a transmitterunit, such as a transmitter unit for generating a signal to induceformation of the sensor signal. In one embodiment, the transmitter unitis electrically connected to the energy storage device, and the signalis an electrical signal. Optionally, the transmitter unit comprises anemitter of electromagnetic radiation, and the signal compriseselectromagnetic radiation. Optionally, the sensor comprises at least onesensing unit for sensing electromagnetic radiation and the transmitterunit comprises one or more of the sensing units. In an embodiment, forexample, an energy storage system further comprises at least oneelectrical sensing unit, electrically connected with the at least oneenergy storage device, for measuring an electrical property of theenergy storage system.

In another aspect, provided are additional methods for detecting anabnormality, such as an abnormality in an energy unit. A specific methodembodiment of this aspect comprises the steps of applying a signal tothe energy unit; performing a plurality of measurements, at a respectiveplurality of different locations within the energy unit, of a responseof the energy unit to the signal; and processing the plurality ofmeasurements to identify the abnormality. Optionally, the step ofapplying comprises applying an electrical signal to the energy unit.Optionally, the step of applying comprises applying electromagneticradiation to the energy unit. In embodiments, the step of performing aplurality of measurements is performed by a plurality of sensors, andthe step of applying is performed by at least one of the plurality ofsensors.

A specific method of this aspect further comprises invoking a controlmeasure to at least a portion of the energy unit associated with theabnormality. Control measures useful with the devices, systems andmethods of the invention include, but are not limited to measures totake one or more energy units off-line, measures to cool one or moreenergy units, measures to discharge one or more energy units and controlmeasures to one or more components of an energy unit.

Optionally, for certain method embodiments of this aspect, the step ofperforming a plurality of measurements comprises performing a pluralityof electrical measurements of electrical properties using a respectiveplurality of sensors electrically connected with portions of the energyunit different from the plurality of sensors. For example, in oneembodiment, the step of performing a plurality of measurements furthercomprises performing at least one measurement selected from the group oftemperature, magnetic susceptibility, and pressure.

Optionally, an abnormality is identified in less than 10 millisecondsafter occurrence of the abnormality.

In various embodiments, the unit comprises an electrical energy storagesystem, an electrochemical energy storage system, an electrical energyharnessing system, an electrochemical energy harnessing system, anyplurality of these or any combination of these. In specific embodiments,the energy unit comprises one or more of an electrochemical cell, acapacitor cell, an ultra-capacitor cell, a flow battery, a fuel cell,any plurality of these or any combination of these. In an embodiment,the energy unit comprises a plurality of electrically connected energystorage devices, each of the plurality of electrically connected energystorage devices comprising at least one of an electrochemical cell, acapacitor cell, an ultra-capacitor cell, a flow battery, and a fuelcell. In an exemplary embodiment, the energy unit comprises at least aportion of a battery system in a vehicle.

Optionally, the abnormality comprises a short in an energy storagedevice in the energy unit. Optionally, the abnormality comprises a shortin an electrical connection in the energy unit. Optionally, theabnormality comprises a change in state of health of the energy unit.

Methods of this aspect optionally comprise spatially locating theabnormality. For example in one embodiment, the step of processingcomprises spatially locating the abnormality. Optionally, the step ofspatially locating comprises utilizing information about configurationof the energy unit, such as a spatial arrangement of components of theenergy unit or a wiring configuration of components of the energy unit.

In another embodiment, the invention provides systems for detecting anabnormality in an energy unit. A specific embodiment of such a systemcomprises a transmitter unit for applying a signal to the energy unit; aplurality of sensing units for performing a respective plurality ofmeasurements of electrical properties of the energy unit; and aprocessing module for processing the plurality of measurements toidentify the abnormality. Optionally, the plurality of sensing unitscomprises a plurality of electrical sensing units, electricallyconnected with the energy unit, for measuring an electrical property ofthe energy unit. For example, in one embodiment, the plurality ofsensing units further comprises at least one electromagnetic sensingunit for sensing electromagnetic radiation. In one embodiment, forexample, the plurality of sensing units comprise at least oneelectromagnetic sensing unit for sensing electromagnetic radiation. Invarious embodiments, the transmitter unit is one of the plurality ofsensing units.

In some embodiments, the processing module comprises a processor andinstructions for, when executed by the processor, analyzing theplurality of measurements to determine the location of the abnormality.Optionally, the instructions comprise information about at least one ofconfiguration of the plurality of sensing units and configuration of theenergy unit.

A specific system embodiment further comprises at least one sensor forperforming a second measurement of a property of the energy unit, theproperty being selected from the group of temperature, magneticsusceptibility, and pressure, the processing module comprisinginstructions for processing the second measurement and the plurality ofmeasurements to identify the abnormality.

Optionally, a system embodiment further comprises a control unitcommunicatively coupled with the processing module,for controlling theenergy system at least partially according to abnormality identificationby the processing module. In one embodiment, for example, the controlunit is communicatively coupled with the transmitter unit forcontrolling transmission of the signal to the energy unit.

Optionally, devices, systems and methods of the invention utilizewireless transmission of data between a sensing unit and a processingmodule. One system embodiment, for example, further comprises circuitryfor wirelessly transmitting signals from at least a portion of theplurality of electrical sensing units to the processing module.

In another embodiment, an energy storage system with abnormalitydetection capability comprises a plurality of energy storage devices forgenerating electricity from stored energy, the stored energy comprisingat least one of electrical energy and chemical energy; an interface forreceiving an electrical signal; and a plurality of sensing units,positioned at a respective plurality of different locations within theenergy storage system, for performing measurements of properties of theenergy storage system, the measurements indicative of a response to theelectrical signal. In an embodiment, for example, the plurality ofsensing units comprise a plurality of electrical sensing unitselectrically connected with at least a portion of the plurality ofenergy storage devices, the measurement comprising electricalmeasurements, and the properties of the energy storage system comprisingelectrical properties. Optionally, the plurality of electrical sensingunits are each capable of independently measuring at least one ofcurrent, voltage, and resistance. Optionally, the plurality of sensingunits further comprises at least one electromagnetic sensing unit forsensing electromagnetic radiation. Optionally, the plurality of sensingunits comprises a plurality of electromagnetic sensing units for sensingelectromagnetic radiation.

In embodiments, an energy storage system comprises a battery for avehicle. In embodiment, an energy storage device comprises one or morelithium ion batteries. In an embodiment, an energy storage devicecomprising one or more electrolytic battery cells. In an embodiment, anenergy storage device comprises one or more capacitor cells. In anembodiment, an energy storage device comprises one or moreultra-capacitor cells.

The present invention further provides additional methods for detectingan abnormality in an energy unit or an energy system or an energydevice. A specific method of this aspect comprises the steps of exposingthe energy unit, energy system or energy device to an electromagneticsignal; and measuring an electrical signal induced in the energy unit,energy system or energy device by the electromagnetic signal, therebydetecting the abnormality. Optionally, the abnormality comprises a shortcircuit in the energy unit, energy system or energy device, a state ofhealth of the energy unit, energy system or energy device or a change instate of health of the energy unit, energy system or energy device.

Optionally, the electromagnetic signal comprises one or more of anelectric field, a magnetic field or an electromagnetic field. In aspecific embodiment, the step of exposing the unit, device or system toan electromagnetic signal comprises passing a current through atransmitter or applying a voltage to a transmitter, the transmitterpositioned proximate to the energy unit, device or system for receivingthe electromagnetic signal. In a specific embodiment, the transmittercomprises one or more pickup coils. Optionally, the passing stepcomprises passing one or more current pulses through the transmitter orapplying one or more voltage pulses to the transmitter.

In embodiments, a magnitude of the current passed through thetransmitter or a magnitude of the voltage applied to the transmitter hasa functional dependence on a distance of the transmitter from the energyunit, energy system or energy device. In embodiments, a magnitude of thecurrent passed through the transmitter or a magnitude of the voltageapplied to the transmitter has a functional dependence on an electricproperty of the energy unit, energy system or energy device.

In an exemplary embodiment, the exposing step results in a detectablechange in an electrical property of the energy unit, energy system orenergy device. For example, in an embodiment, the electrical signalcomprises a change in an electrical property of the energy unit, energysystem or energy device. Optionally, the electric property of the energyunit, energy system or energy device comprises one or more of aninductance, an impedance, a resistance, a capacitance, a voltage, apermeability and a permittivity.

In an exemplary embodiment, the energy unit, energy system or energydevice comprises an electrochemical cell. In a specific embodiment, theabnormality comprises a short circuit between two or more components ofthe electrochemical cell. Optionally, the abnormality comprises a shortcircuit between an anode current collector of the electrochemical celland a cathode current collector of the electrochemical cell. Optionally,the abnormality comprises a short circuit between an anode activematerial of the electrochemical cell and the cathode current collector.Optionally, the abnormality comprises a short circuit between the anodecurrent collector and a cathode active material of the electrochemicalcell. Optionally, the abnormality comprises a short circuit between theanode active material and the cathode active material.

In one embodiment, the measuring step comprising measuring theelectrical signal induced in the energy unit, energy system or energydevice using one or more of an inductance measuring device, an impedancemeasuring device, a resistance measuring device, a capacitance measuringdevice, a voltage measuring device, a permeability measuring device anda permittivity measuring device.

In an exemplary embodiment, the exposing step comprises generating theelectromagnetic signal having a frequency selected from the range of 1kHz to 10 GHz. In one embodiment the measuring step comprises measuringthe electrical signal induced in the energy unit in 10 milliseconds orless after the exposing step.

Optionally, the energy unit, energy system or energy device is in anoperational condition during the exposing and measuring steps. Forexample, in an embodiment, the operational condition comprises acondition where the energy unit, energy system or energy device isgenerating an electric current or receiving an applied electric current.

Optionally, the energy unit, energy system or energy device is in anon-operational condition during the exposing and measuring steps. Forexample, in an embodiment, the non-operational condition comprises anopen circuit condition.

Methods of this aspect are optionally useful during manufacturing of anenergy unit, energy system or energy device. In one embodiment, theenergy unit, energy system or energy device is in a state of partialmanufacture during the exposing and measuring steps. In anotherembodiment, however, the energy unit, energy system or energy device isin a state of completed manufacture during the exposing and measuringsteps.

For various of the above devices, systems and methods, theelectromagnetic signals are optionally generated by a second energyunit, energy system or energy device proximate to the energy unit,energy system or energy device that is being investigated for anabnormality. Such a configuration allows for flexibility in the devicessystems and methods of the invention, such as by allowing an energyunit, energy system or energy device of known operational, non-abnormalor good state of health to act as a inducer or sensor for otherproximate energy units, energy systems or energy devices.

Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, there can bediscussion herein of beliefs or understandings of underlying principlesrelating to the invention. It is recognized that regardless of theultimate correctness of any mechanistic explanation or hypothesis, anembodiment of the invention can nonetheless be operative and useful.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy system withabnormality detection capability, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy unit withsensors for sensing abnormalities in individualelectrical/electrochemical energy devices within theelectrical/electrochemical energy unit, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy unit withabnormality detection sensors communicatively coupled with electricalconnections within the electrical/electrochemical energy unit, accordingto an embodiment.

FIG. 4 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy systemconfigured for abnormality detection capability, according to anembodiment.

FIG. 5 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy system includingan electrical/electrochemical energy unit and abnormality detectionsensors located both internally and externally to theelectrical/electrochemical energy unit, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy unit thatincludes the abnormality sensing functionality of theelectrical/electrochemical energy units of FIGS. 2 and 3, according toan embodiment.

FIG. 7 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy system thatincludes the abnormality sensing functionality of theelectrical/electrochemical energy unit of FIG. 3 and the abnormalitysensing functionality of the electrical/electrochemical energy system ofFIG. 4, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy system thatincludes the abnormality sensing functionality of theelectrical/electrochemical energy unit of FIG. 6 and the abnormalitysensing functionality of the electrical/electrochemical energy system ofFIG. 4, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9 illustrates an abnormality detection system utilizingelectromagnetic radiation sensors to detect an abnormality in anelectrical/electrochemical energy device or unit, according to anembodiment.

FIG. 10 illustrates an abnormality detection system utilizingelectrically connected sensors for detection of an abnormality in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11 illustrates an abnormality detection system utilizingelectromagnetic radiation sensors and electrically connected sensors fordetection of an abnormality in an electrical/electrochemical energyunit, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 12 schematically illustrates the configuration of anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit including at least oneelectrical/electrochemical device, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 13 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy unit configuredfor abnormality detection based upon sensing of electromagneticradiation, using pickup coils wound around individualelectrical/electrochemical energy devices, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy unit configuredfor abnormality detection based upon sensing of electromagneticradiation, using elongated pickup coils placed the sides of individualelectrical/electrochemical energy devices, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a diagram that schematically illustrates the radiationsensing unit of FIG. 14, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 16 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy unit configuredfor abnormality detection based upon sensing of electromagneticradiation, using planar pickup coils placed the sides of individualelectrical/electrochemical energy devices, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a diagram that schematically illustrates the radiationsensing unit of FIG. 16, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 18 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy unit configuredfor abnormality detection based upon sensing of electromagneticradiation, using magnetic induction sensors placed around individualelectrical connections within the electrical/electrochemical energyunit, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 19A and 19B schematically illustrate the radiation sensing unit ofFIG. 18, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 20 illustrates an electrical/electrochemical energy unit configuredfor abnormality detection based upon electromagnetic radiation sensingusing sensing units located on the exterior of theelectrical/electrochemical energy unit, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 21 illustrates a method for detecting an abnormality in anelectrical/electrochemical energy device or unit utilizing sensing ofelectromagnetic radiation generated by the abnormality, according to anembodiment.

FIG. 22 illustrates a method that utilizes sensing of electromagneticradiation to detect and spatially locate an abnormality in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device, according to anembodiment.

FIG. 23 illustrates a method for passively detecting an abnormality inan electrical/electrochemical energy unit using sensing ofelectromagnetic radiation, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 24 illustrates a method for passively detecting and spatiallylocating an abnormality in an electrical/electrochemical energy unit ordevice using sensing of electromagnetic radiation, according to anembodiment.

FIG. 25 illustrates a method for generating a sensor signal in themethod of FIG. 21.

FIG. 26 illustrates a method for detecting an abnormality in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device using a plurality ofdifferent detection methodologies, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 27 illustrates isolation of a signal feature indicating theoccurrence or existence of an abnormality in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device, according to anembodiment.

FIG. 28 illustrates a method for detecting an abnormality in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device, utilizing a pluralityof sensors to perform a system response measurement, according to anembodiment.

FIG. 29 illustrates a method for detecting and spatially locating anabnormality in an electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device,utilizing a plurality of sensors to perform a system responsemeasurement, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 30 depicts photographs showing experimental conditions andobservations using methods of the invention.

FIG. 31 depicts photographs showing experimental conditions andobservations using methods of the invention.

FIG. 32 depicts photographs showing experimental conditions andobservations using methods of the invention.

FIG. 33 depicts photographs showing experimental conditions andobservations using methods of the invention.

FIG. 34 depicts photographs showing experimental conditions andobservations using methods of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In general the terms and phrases used herein have their art-recognizedmeaning, which can be found by reference to standard texts, journalreferences and contexts known to those skilled in the art. The followingdefinitions are provided to clarify their specific use in the context ofthe invention.

The terms “electrochemical energy device”, “electrochemical energyunit”, and “electrochemical energy systems” refer to a device, unit, orsystem, respectively, capable of converting chemical energy intoelectrical energy, or electrical energy into chemical energy.Electrochemical energy devices include, but are not limited to, primarybatteries, secondary batteries, electrolysis systems, fuels cells,electrochemical capacitors, ultracapacitors, flow batteries, part solidpart fluid electrochemical cells, metal-air batteries such as lithiumair batteries and zinc-air batteries, and metal-aqueous batteries suchas lithium-water batteries and semi-solid batteries. An electrochemicalunit or system is a unit or system that includes at least oneelectrochemical device, and may include a plurality of electrochemicaldevices, optionally connected in series, parallel, or a combinationthereof. Electrochemical devices, units, and systems may beelectrochemical devices, units, and systems for providing electricalenergy to a vehicle.

The terms “electrical energy device”, “electrical energy unit”, and“electrical energy systems” refer to a device, unit, or system,respectively, capable of harnessing energy by converting it toelectrical energy, and/or storing electrical energy. Electrical energydevices include, but are not limited to, capacitors and photovoltaicdevices. An electrical unit or system is a unit or system that includesat least one electrical device, and may include a plurality ofelectrical devices, optionally connected in series, parallel, or acombination thereof. Electrical devices, units, and systems may beelectrical devices, units, and systems for providing electrical energyto a vehicle.

The terms “electrical/electrochemical energy device”,“electrical/electrochemical energy unit”, and“electrical/electrochemical energy systems” refer to a device, unit, orsystem, respectively, which includes an electrical energy device and/oran electrochemical energy device.

The terms “energy device”, “energy unit”, and “energy system” refers toan electrical/electrochemical energy device, anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit, and anelectrical/electrochemical energy system, respectively.

The term “electromagnetic radiation” refers to a form of radiant energythat propagates through space via electromagnetic waves and/or photons.

The term “magnetically sensitive” refers to being sensitive to magneticfields or changes, as a function of time, of magnetic fields. Examplesof magnetically sensitive devices include, but are not limited to, apickup coil, a pickup coil including a ferrite core, a copper coil, aclosed loop antenna, a magnetic induction device, a toriodal inductor, amagnetometer, a Hall-effect probe, a solenoid, and a highelectrical-conductivity spiral.

The term “pickup coil” refers to a two-terminal electrical componentcapable of producing an electric current when subjected to a magneticfield which changes as a function of time. Pickup coils include anelectrically conductive wire shaped to form a loop or a portion of aloop between the two terminals, and an electrically conductive wireshaped to form multiple loops between the two terminals.

The term “signal” refers to a quantity that conveys information aboutthe behavior or attributes of a phenomenon. “Signal” includes a quantitythat may provide information about the status of a physical system orconvey a message between observers.

The term “system response” refers to the response of system to anapplied signal, where the signal may be, for example, electrical,magnetic, or electromagnetic. The term “system response measurement”refers to applying the signal that induces the signal response, andmeasuring the system response.

The terms “passive detection” and “passively detecting” refer to theperformance of measurements that are not system response measurements.

The term “state of health” refers to a figure of merit of the conditionof an electrical/electrochemical device or a group ofelectrical/electrochemical devices for storing energy, compared to itsideal condition. State of health may be determined based on parameterincluding, but not limited to, resistance, impedance, conductance,capacity, voltage, self-discharge, ability to accept a charge, number ofcharge-discharge cycles, or a combination thereof.

The term “state of charge” refers to the amount of energy, which may beconverted into electrical energy, held by an electrical/electrochemicaldevice or a group of electrical/electrochemical devices for storingenergy, compared to its maximum value.

The term “electrical short” refers to a value of electrical resistancethat is below a threshold value.

The term “abnormality” refers to a condition that develops in an energydevice, unit, or system, that is indicative of non-routine, non-optimal,dangerous or otherwise unexpected or unwanted behavior in the energydevice, unit, or system. In an embodiment, an abnormality refers to anelectrical cutoff in an energy device, unit or system. In an embodiment,an abnormality refers to an electrical short in an energy device, unitor system. In an embodiment, a short circuit can develop between variouscomponents of an electrochemical energy device, such as between an anodecurrent collector and a cathode current collector, or between an anodeactive material and a cathode active material, or between an anodecurrent collector and a cathode active material or between an anodeactive material and a cathode current collector. In an embodiment, anabnormality refers to a state of health or change in state of health ofan energy device, unit, or system indicative a decrease in operationalperformance, such as an increase in internal resistance, a capacity lossor an inability to undergo charge cycling.

FIG. 1 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energysystem 100 with abnormality detection capability. Energy system 100includes an electrical/electrochemical energy unit 110. Energy unit 110includes at least one electrical/electrochemical energy device 115 and asensor 120 for sensing one or more properties of energy unit 110, forexample a property of energy device 115. Energy system 100 furtherincludes a processing module 130 for processing a sensor signalgenerated by sensor 120. Processing module 130 processes the sensorsignal generated by sensor 120 to determine if an abnormality 180 withinenergy unit 110 has occurred or exists. Together, sensor 120 andprocessing module 130 form a detection system for detecting abnormality180. Abnormality 180 may occur or exist, for example, in energy device115 or in electrical connections associated therewith.

In an embodiment, sensor 120 is communicatively coupled with energydevice 115. In another embodiment, sensor 120 is communicatively coupledwith an electrical connection associated with energy device 115. Sensor120 may be included in energy unit 110, as illustrated in FIG. 1, beseparate therefrom, or include components included in energy unit 110 aswell as components separate therefrom, without departing from the scopehereof. For example, sensor 120 may be located externally to energy unit110 while being communicatively coupled therewith.

Optionally, energy system 100 further includes a control unit 140communicatively coupled with processing module 130 and energy unit 110,such that appropriate action may be taken upon detection of electricalabnormality 180 by sensor 120 and processing module 130. For example,processing module 130 communicates detection of abnormality 180 tocontrol unit 140 which then invokes a control measure to energy unit110. Examples of control measures invoked by control unit 140 include,but are not limited to, draining energy device 115, applying coolant toenergy device 115, apply fire extinguisher to energy unit 110,disconnecting energy device 115, and disconnecting energy unit 110.

In certain embodiments, sensor 120 includes one or more sensing unitssensitive to electromagnetic radiation. This embodiment is particularlyuseful for detecting the occurrence of abnormality 180. For example,abnormality 180 may be an electrical short in energy device 115 orelectrical connections within energy unit 110. Acceleration of chargedparticles is associated with generation of electromagnetic radiation.Thus, the change in electrical current, associated with occurrence of anelectrical short, results in emission of electromagnetic radiation, suchas a pulse of electromagnetic radiation, from the electrical short. Theelectromagnetic radiation generated by abnormality 180 may be one ormore pulses of electromagnetic radiation. Sensor 120, or a sensing unitthereof, senses this electromagnetic radiation as a change, as afunction of time, of the electromagnetic field at the location of sensor120, or a sensing unit thereof.

Detection of abnormality 180 through sensing of electromagneticradiation generated by abnormality 180 is fast compared to conventionalmethods relying on, for example, temperature measurements. The mode ofsignal transmission from abnormality 180 is electromagnetic radiation,which propagates at the speed of light, and therefore reaches sensor 120on a timescale much faster than the typical timescale of, for example,dangerous local temperature increase resulting from abnormality 180. Insome embodiments, energy system 100 is capable of detecting anabnormality in less than 10 milliseconds after occurrence of theabnormality. In some embodiments, energy system 100 is capable ofdetecting an abnormality in less than 100 milliseconds after occurrenceof the abnormality. For comparison, it may take up to a minute for thetemperature increase resulting from an electrical short inside a batterycell to propagate from the location of the electrical short to atemperature sensor located on the outside of the battery cell.

Sensing of electromagnetic radiation may further be used to detect someforms of abnormality 180 that are not electrical in nature. For example,energy unit 110 generally includes components and/or substances capableof producing electricity. A non-electrical abnormality 180, such as achemical abnormality, in energy unit 110 is likely to result in anelectrical abnormality, which may be sensed by sensor 120 as discussedabove.

In certain embodiments, sensor 120 includes a plurality of sensing unitslocated in different positions within energy unit 110 and/orcommunicatively coupled with different portions of energy unit 110. Forexample, energy unit 110 may include multiple energy devices 115, eachbeing communicatively coupled with a different sensing unit of sensor120. The plurality of sensing units facilitates spatial location ofabnormality 180, such that processing module 130 may provide a spatiallocation of abnormality 180 to control unit 140. Control unit 140 mayutilize spatial location information about abnormality 180 to invoke acontrol measure to a portion of energy unit 110. For example, in anembodiment of energy unit 110 including multiple energy devices 115,where abnormality 180 is within a single energy device 115, control unitmay invoke a control measure to the energy device 115 having abnormality180. It may be possible to continue operation of energy devices 115 notaffected by abnormality 180. Additionally, the plurality of sensingunits may provide increased sensitivity for detection of abnormality 180in embodiments of energy unit 110 including energy devices 115 coupledin series, as compared to conventional methods relying on themeasurement of the terminal voltages of energy unit. The sensing unitsof sensor 120 may be advantageously arranged to sense occurrence orexistence of abnormality 180 within each of a group of sub-portions ofenergy unit 110. Each such sub-portion of energy unit 110 may includeone or more energy devices 115.

FIG. 2 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energy unit200 with sensors for sensing abnormalities in individualelectrical/electrochemical energy devices within energy unit 200. Energyunit 200 is an embodiment of energy unit 110 of FIG. 1. Energy unit 200includes one or more energy devices 210, where i is a positive integer.Energy devices 210(i) are embodiments of energy device 115 (FIG. 1).Some embodiments of energy unit 200 includes only energy device, energydevice 210(1), while other embodiments of energy unit 200 includesenergy device 210(1) and additional energy devices 210(i), where i is aninteger greater than one. Energy unit 200 further includes a sensingunit 220(1,1) that is communicatively coupled with energy device 210(1).Optionally, energy unit 200 includes a plurality of sensing units220(i,j), where each sensing unit 220(i,j) is communicatively coupledwith a respective energy device 210(i); j is a positive integer. Eachsensing unit 220(i,j) is thus configured for sensing an abnormality,such as abnormality 180 (FIG. 1), in a respective energy device 210(i).The set of sensing units 220(i,j) included in energy unit 200 form anembodiment of sensor 120 (FIG. 1). In an embodiment, energy unit 200includes at least one sensing unit 220(i,j) for each energy device210(i). In an embodiment, energy unit 200 includes a plurality ofsensing devices 220(i,j) for at least a portion of sensing devices210(i).

In one embodiment, sensing unit 220(i,j) is sensitive to electromagneticradiation. In this embodiment, sensing unit 220(i,j) need not beelectrically connected, or in physical contact, with energy device220(i). In another embodiment, sensing unit 220(i,j) is electricallyconnected with energy device 210(i) for measuring an electrical propertythereof, such as voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, impedance,complex impedance, and/or a combination thereof. In yet anotherembodiment, sensing unit 220(i,j) is configured to measure anenvironmental property such as temperature, pressure, humidity, or acombination thereof. In a further embodiment, sensing unit 220(i,j) isconfigured to measure magnetization, magnetic Curie temperature, stateof health, and/or state of charge. The magnetic Curie temperature is thetemperature, at which the permanent magnetism of a material changes toinduced magnetism. Sensing unit 220(i,j) may sense this state change ofthe material when the temperature of the material increases beyond themagnetic Curie temperature. Energy unit 220 may include sensing units220(i,j) according to a single embodiment thereof or a combination ofsensing units 220(i,j) of different embodiments, without departing fromthe scope hereof. In one example, all sensing units 220(i,j) areconfigured for sensing electromagnetic radiation. In another example,one portion of sensing units 220(i,j) are configured for sensingelectromagnetic radiation, while another portion of sensing units220(i,j) are configured for sensing an electrical property.

While each sensing unit 220(i,j) are illustrated as beingcommunicatively coupled with one energy device 210(i), sensing unit220(i,j) may be sensitive to other energy devices 210(k), where k isdifferent from i, without departing from the scope hereof. For example,in an embodiment where sensing unit 220(i,j) is configured for sensingelectromagnetic radiation, sensing unit 220(i,j) may be sensitive toelectromagnetic radiation originating from both energy device 210(j) andother energy devices 210(k), however with greater sensitivity toelectromagnetic radiation originating energy device 210(k). In anotherexample including sensing units 220(i,j) configured for sensingelectrical properties, electrical connections between energy units 210may produce crosstalk, such that a sensing unit 220(i,j) is sensitive toelectrical properties of energy device 220(i) as well as other energydevices 220(k), where k is different from i.

FIG. 3 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energy unit300 with abnormality detection sensors communicatively coupled withelectrical connections within energy unit 300. Energy unit 300 is thusconfigured for detection of abnormality 180 (FIG. 1). Energy unit 300 isan embodiment of energy unit 110 of FIG. 1. Energy unit 300 includes oneor more energy devices 210 (FIG. 2) and electrical connections 310 thatare electrically connected with at least one energy device 210.Electrical connections 310 include at least one electrical connection311. Energy unit 300 further includes at least one sensing unit 320 thatis communicatively coupled with a respective connection 311. The set ofsensing units 320 included in energy unit 300 forms an embodiment ofsensor 120 (FIG. 1). Although illustrated in FIG. 3 as being included inenergy unit 300, sensing units 320 may be located externally to energyunit 300, without departing from the scope hereof.

In certain embodiments, sensing units 320 are configured to measure anelectrical property of a respective connection 311, such as voltage,current, resistance, capacitance, impedance, complex impedance, and/or acombination thereof. Sensing units 320 may thereby measure an electricalproperty of one or more energy devices 210. In one example, energy unit300 includes a plurality of sensing units 320, each electricallyconnected to a respective connection 311 that is associated with arespective spatial portion of energy unit 300, such as a respectiveenergy device 210.

In certain embodiments, sensing units 320 are configured to senseelectromagnetic radiation. For example, sensing units 320 senseelectromagnetic radiation associated with an abnormality, such as ashort, in connectors 311.

FIG. 4 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energysystem 400 configured for abnormality detection capability. Energysystem 400 is thus configured for detection of abnormality 180 (FIG. 1).Energy system 400 includes an electrical/electrochemical energy unit 405and at least one sensing unit 410(i) located externally to energy unit405. Sensing unit 410(i) is communicatively coupled with energy unit 405for sensing an abnormality, such as abnormality 180 (FIG. 1), of energyunit 405. Energy unit 405 includes one or more energy devices 210(j)(FIG. 2). Energy system 400 is an embodiment of energy unit 110 andsensor 120 of FIG. 1.

In one embodiment, sensing unit 410(i) is sensitive to electromagneticradiation. In this embodiment, sensing unit 410(i) need not beelectrically connected, or in physical contact, with energy unit 405. Inanother embodiment, sensing unit 410(i) is electrically connected withenergy unit 405 for measuring an electrical property thereof, such asvoltage, current, resistance, capacitance, impedance, complex impedance,and/or a combination thereof. In yet another embodiment, sensing unit410(i) is configured to measure an environmental property such astemperature, pressure, humidity, or a combination thereof. In a furtherembodiment, sensing unit 410(i,j) is configured to measuremagnetization, magnetic Curie temperature, state of health, and/or stateof charge. Energy system 400 may include sensing units 410(i) accordingto a single embodiment thereof or a combination of sensing units 410(i)of different embodiments, without departing from the scope hereof. Inone example, all sensing units 410(i) are configured for sensingelectromagnetic radiation. In another example, one portion of sensingunits 410(i) are configured for sensing electromagnetic radiation, whileanother portion of sensing units 410(i) are configured for sensing anelectrical property.

In an embodiment of energy system 400 that includes a plurality ofsensing units 410(i) sensitive to electromagnetic radiation, sensingunits 410(i) are located in different positions relative to energy unit405. In this embodiment, sensing units 410(i) may provide spatialinformation about an abnormality 180 (FIG. 1) within energy unit 405.For example, sensing units 410(i) may be located such that each ofsensing units 410(i) is closer to a respective one of a plurality ofenergy devices 210(j).

FIG. 5 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energysystem 500 including an electrical/electrochemical energy unit andabnormality detection sensors located both internally and externallythereto. Energy system 500 is thus configured for detection ofabnormality 180 (FIG. 1). Energy system 500 includeselectrical/electrochemical energy unit 200 (FIG. 2) and at least onesensing unit 410 (FIG. 4) communicatively coupled therewith, asdiscussed in connection with FIG. 4 with energy unit 200 implemented asenergy unit 405 (FIG. 4).

FIG. 6 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energy unit600 that includes the abnormality sensing functionality of energy units200 of FIGS. 2 and 300 of FIG. 3. Energy unit 600 includes at least oneenergy device 220 (FIG. 2) and at least one sensing unit 210 (FIG. 2)communicatively coupled therewith, as discussed in connection with FIG.2. Energy unit 600 further includes electrical connections 310 (FIG. 3),electrically connected with the at least one energy device 220, and atleast one sensing unit 320 (FIG. 3) communicatively coupled withelectrical connections 310, as discussed in connection with FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energysystem 700 that includes the abnormality sensing functionality ofelectrical/electrochemical energy unit 300 of FIG. 3 and the abnormalitysensing functionality of electrical/electrochemical energy system 400 ofFIG. 4. Energy system 700 includes energy unit 300 (FIG. 3) and at leastone sensing unit 410 (FIG. 4) communicatively coupled therewith, asdiscussed in connection with FIG. 4, with energy unit 300 implemented asenergy unit 405 (FIG. 4).

FIG. 8 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energysystem 800 that includes the abnormality sensing functionality ofelectrical/electrochemical energy unit 600 of FIG. 6 and the abnormalitysensing functionality of electrical/electrochemical energy system 400 ofFIG. 4. Energy system 800 includes energy unit 600 (FIG. 6) and at leastone sensing unit 410 (FIG. 4) communicatively coupled therewith, asdiscussed in connection with FIG. 4, with energy unit 600 implemented asenergy unit 405 (FIG. 4).

FIG. 9 illustrates one exemplary abnormality detection system 900utilizing electromagnetic radiation sensors to detect an abnormality,such as abnormality 180 (FIG. 1), in an electrical/electrochemicalenergy device or unit. Abnormality detection system 900 includes aradiation sensor 910 and a processing module 930. Radiation sensor is anembodiment of sensor 120 (FIG. 1), and processing module 930 is anembodiment of processing module 130 (FIG. 1). Radiation sensor 910 isconfigured to sense electromagnetic radiation associated with theoccurrence or existence of an abnormality, such as abnormality 180 (FIG.1), in an electrical/electrochemical energy device or unit. Radiationsensor 910 includes one or more radiation sensing units 915, and aninterface 920. Radiation sensing units 915 may be mounted in series,parallel, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, interface 920includes a wireless interface 925, such as a radio-frequencytransmitter, a Bluetooth communication port, or a Wi-Fi communicationport. Wireless interface 925 is useful, for example, when radiationsensor 910 is implemented internally to packaging of an energy unit, orwhen flexibility in the relative placement of radiation sensor 910 andprocessing module 930 is required. Processing module 930 includes aprocessor 940 and memory 950. In certain embodiments, processing module930 includes an oscilloscope, a network analyzer, or a vector networkanalyzer. Memory 950 includes machine-readable instructions 960 encodedin a non-volatile portion of memory 950. Sensor 910 and/or processingmodule 930 may include an amplifier for amplifying signals generated bysensing units 915.

In an embodiment, instructions 960 include one or more of energy unitconfiguration information 962, radiation sensor configurationinformation 964, and abnormality criteria 966. Energy unit configurationinformation 962 includes information about the configuration of anenergy unit for which radiation sensor 910 may be used to senseabnormalities. Such configuration information may include the layout ofthe energy unit and/or operating parameters for the energy unit.Radiation sensor configuration information 964 may includespecifications for radiation sensing units 915, such as its physical andgeometrical properties, as well as the locations of radiation sensingunits 915 in relation to an energy unit for which radiation sensor 910may be used to sense abnormalities. Abnormality criteria 966 may includerequirements to properties of a signal generated by radiation sensingunits 915, which must be met in order for the signal to be deemedindicative of an electrical abnormality in an energy unit, as opposed tooriginating from ambient electromagnetic radiation. Examples ofrequirements include a threshold signal magnitude, pulse duration,frequency, waveform, and combinations thereof. Instructions 960 mayfurther include physical laws and rules or equations derived therefrom,such as Maxwell's equations, the wave equation, the Larmor formula, andbattery equations including thermodynamics and kinetics.

Radiation sensors 915 are sensitive to electromagnetic radiation.Radiation sensor 910 communicates a sensor signal, generated frommeasurements performed by radiation sensing units 915, to processingmodule 930 via interface 920. In an embodiment, the sensor signal is anelectrical signal. Processor 940 processes the sensor signal accordingto instructions 960 to determine if the sensor signal is indicative ofan abnormality in an energy unit under study. Each of radiation sensingunits 915 may be operated as sensing unit 220 (FIG. 2), sensing unit 320(FIG. 3), or sensing unit 410 (FIG. 4).

In an embodiment, abnormality detection system 900 is a passiveabnormality detection system which performs measurements on an energyunit without actively stimulating any portion or aspect of the energyunit. In another embodiment, abnormality detection system 900 activelystimulates the energy unit, to detect abnormalities therein through asystem response measurement. In this embodiment, abnormality detectionunit 900 includes a transmitter unit 980 for transmitting a signal to anenergy unit. Transmitter unit 980 may be configured to transmit anelectrical signal to an energy unit. For example, transmitter 980 isconfigured to transmit a low-power high-frequency electrical signal,optionally of varying frequency, to an energy unit. Transmitter unit 980may be electrically connected to the terminals of the energy unit. In analternate example, transmitter unit 980 is configured to transmit asignal in the form of electromagnetic radiation to an energy unit. Inanother example, transmitter unit 980 is configured to apply a magneticfield to an energy unit. The sensor signal generated by radiation sensor910 then includes the response of the energy unit to the signaltransmitted thereto by transmitter 980. In another embodiment,abnormality detection system 900 is configured to detect abnormalitiesthrough a combination of passive detection and system responsemeasurements, where the system response measurements may includeoperation of transmitter unit 980.

In an embodiment, one or more of sensing units 915 function astransmitter unit 980, such that transmitter unit includes one or more ofsensing units 915.

In an embodiment, abnormality detection system 900 includes control unit140 (FIG. 1), communicatively coupled with processing module 930.Control unit 140 is capable of controlling at least portions of thefunctionality of an energy unit based upon information received fromprocessing module 930. Such information includes, for example, one ormore of detection of an abnormality, lack of detection of anabnormality, and location, magnitude, and type of a detectedabnormality. Optionally, control unit 940 includes transmitter unit 980.

In an embodiment, abnormality detection system 900 includes an energyunit 905 communicatively coupled with radiation sensor 910, such thatabnormality detection system 900 may detect abnormalities in energy unit905. In an embodiment, abnormality detection system 900 includes energyunit 905 and transmitter unit 980. In this embodiment, energy unit 905may include an interface 970 for receiving a signal from transmitterunit 980. In an embodiment, abnormality detection system 900 includesenergy unit 905 and control unit 140 communicatively coupled therewiththrough interface 970. In an embodiment, abnormality detection system900 includes energy unit 905, control unit 140, and transmitter unit980. Energy unit 905 may include a plurality of separate energy units950, without departing from the scope hereof. Optionally, transmitterunit 980 and/or processing module 930 are incorporated in energy unit905.

Abnormality detection system 900 may be extended to include a pluralityof processing modules 930 communicatively coupled with a respectiveplurality of sensors 910, without departing from the scope hereof. Theseprocessing modules may function as secondary control units, allcommunicatively coupled with control unit 140. For example, suchsecondary control units may monitor different portions of energy unit905.

FIG. 10 illustrates one exemplary abnormality detection system 1000utilizing electrically connected sensors for detection of anabnormality, such as abnormality 180 (FIG. 1), in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit. Abnormality detection system1000 is identical to abnormality detection system 900 (FIG. 9), exceptthat sensing of electromagnetic radiation using radiation sensors isreplaced by sensing of electrical properties using sensors that areelectrically connected with the energy unit under study. Accordingly,abnormality detection system 1000 includes an electrical sensor 1010 inplace of radiation sensor 910 (FIG. 9). Electrical sensor 1010 includesone or more electrically connected sensing units 1015, configured to beelectrically connected to an energy unit, and an interface 1020.Interface 1020 is similar to interface 920 (FIG. 9), and optionallyincludes a wireless interface 1025 that has properties similar towireless interface 925 (FIG. 9). Each of electrically connected sensingunits 1015 is configurod to measure an electrical property such asvoltage, current, resistance, capacitance, impedance, complex impedance,and/or a combination thereof. Electrical sensing units 1015 may bemounted in series, parallel, or a combination thereof. Each ofelectrically connected sensing units 1015 may be implemented as sensingunit 220 (FIG. 2), sensing unit 320 (FIG. 3), or sensing unit 410 (FIG.4). As compared to abnormality detection system 900 (FIG. 9), processingmodule 930 (FIG. 9) is replaced by processing module 1030.

Processing module 1030 is similar to processing module 930 (FIG. 9).Processing module 1030 includes processor 940 (FIG. 9) and memory 1050.In certain embodiments, processing module 1030 includes an oscilloscope,a network analyzer, and/or a vector network analyzer. Memory 1050includes machine-readable instructions 1060, which are encoded in anon-volatile portion of memory 1050 and include energy unitconfiguration information 962 (FIG. 9), electrical sensor configurationinformation 1064, and abnormality criteria 1066. Electrical sensorconfiguration information 1064 and abnormality criteria 1066 haveproperties similar to electrical sensor configuration information 964(FIG. 9) and abnormality criteria 966 (FIG. 9), but tailored to thespecific properties of electrical sensor 1010. Instructions 1060 mayfurther include physical laws and rules or equations derived therefrom,such as Ohm's law Kirchhoff's circuit laws, and battery equationsincluding thermodynamics and kinetics. In an embodiment, one of more ofsensing units 1015 function as transmitter unit 980 (FIG. 9), such thattransmitter unit 980 includes one or more of sensing units 1015. Sensor1010 and/or processing module 1030 may include an amplifier foramplifying signals generated by sensing units 1015.

FIG. 11 illustrates one exemplary abnormality detection system 1100utilizing electromagnetic radiation sensors and electrically connectedsensors for detection of an abnormality, such as abnormality 180 (FIG.1), in an electrical/electrochemical energy unit. Abnormality detectionsystem 1100 thus combines the detection functionality of abnormalitydetection systems 900 (FIGS. 9) and 1000 (FIG. 10). In comparison toabnormality detection system 900 (FIG. 9), abnormality detection system1100 further includes electrical sensor 1010 (FIG. 10) implemented asdiscussed in connection with FIG. 10. Processing module 930 (FIG. 9) isreplaced by a similar processing module 1130. Processing module 1030includes processor 940 (FIG. 9) and memory 1150. In certain embodiments,processing module 1130 includes an oscilloscope, a network analyzer,and/or a vector network analyzer. Memory 1150 includes machine-readableinstructions 1160, which are encoded in a non-volatile portion of memory1150 and include energy unit configuration information 962 (FIG. 9),radiation sensor configuration information 964 (FIG. 9), electricalsensor configuration information 1064 (FIG. 10), abnormality criteria966 (FIG. 9), and abnormality criteria 1066 (FIG. 10). Instructions 1160may further include physical laws and rules or equations derivedtherefrom, such as Maxwell's equations, the wave equation, the Larmorformula, Ohm's law, Kirchhoff's circuit laws, and battery equationsincluding thermodynamics and kinetics. In an embodiment, one or more ofsensing unit 915 and 1015 function as transmitter unit 980 (FIG. 9),such that transmitter unit 980 includes one or more of sensing units 915and1015. Processing module 1130 may include an amplifier for amplifyingsignals generated by sensing units 915 and/or 1015.

FIG. 12 schematically illustrates the configuration of one exemplaryelectrical/electrochemical energy unit 1200 including at least oneelectrical/electrochemical device. Energy unit 1200 includes one or moreenergy devices 210 (FIG. 2) and terminals 1221 and 1222. Each energydevice 210 has terminals 1211 and 1212. For clarity of illustration, notall terminals 1211 and 1212 are labeled in FIG. 12. In one embodiment,energy unit 1200 includes only a single energy device 210 with terminals1211 and 1212 connected to terminals 1221 and 1222 through electricalconnections 311 (FIG. 3). In another embodiment, energy unit 1200includes a plurality of energy devices 210 with terminals 1211 and 1212connected to terminals 1221 and 1222 through electrical connections 311(FIG. 3), and optionally, through connections between individual energydevices 210. For example, energy unit 1200 includes a plurality ofenergy devices 210 connected in series, parallel, or a combinationthereof, via electrical connections 311. For clarity of illustration,not all electrical connections 311 are labeled in FIG. 12.

Optionally, energy unit 1200 includes an enclosure 1290 for enclosing atleast a portion of energy unit 1200. For example, enclosure 1290encloses energy devices 210, electrical connections 311, while allowingfor access to terminals 1221 and 1222.

Although FIG. 12 illustrates energy unit 1200 as including six energydevices 210 arranged in three pairs of serially connected energydevices, with the three pairs connected in parallel, energy unit 1200may include a different number of energy devices 210 connected inseries, parallel, or a combination thereof, without departing from thescope hereof. Additionally, energy devices 210 may have shape andphysical location different from that illustrated in FIG. 12, withoutdeparting from the scope hereof. For example, energy devices 210 may besubstantially cylindrical in shape and/or be positioned on a differentgrid, such as along a single line. Furthermore, energy unit 1200 mayinclude different types of energy devices 210, without departing fromthe scope hereof. For example, a plurality of energy devices 210 mayinclude energy storage devices of different capacity, and/or include acombination of energy storage and energy harnessing devices.

FIG. 13 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energy unit1300 configured for abnormality detection based upon sensing ofelectromagnetic radiation, using pickup coils wound around individualelectrical/electrochemical energy devices. Electrical/electrochemicalenergy unit 1300 is thus configured for detection of abnormality 180(FIG. 1). Electrical/electrochemical energy unit 1300 includes energyunit 1200 (FIG. 12) and at least one radiation sensing unit 1310 locatedat a respective energy device 210 (FIGS. 2 and 12). Radiation sensingunit 1310 is a pickup coil wound around energy device 210, and is thusmagnetically sensitive. Electromagnetic radiation generation withinenergy device 210 is associated with a change, as a function of time, inmagnetic field within energy device 210, which in turn induces a currentin radiation sensing unit 1310. Radiation sensing unit 1310 may bemounted directly onto energy device 210, be included in energy device210, for example as part of packaging of energy device 210, or bemounted at a distance from energy device 210.

The orientation of windings of a pickup coil has implications fordetection of electromagnetic radiation generated by acceleratingcharges. As discussed in connection with FIG. 1, an acceleratingelectrical charge generates electromagnetic radiation. The magneticfield associated with the electromagnetic radiation is, under idealconditions, wherein the electromagnetic field is not directionallyaffected by other interactions, oriented orthogonal to the direction ofmovement of the accelerating electrical charges. A planar winding issensitive to magnetic field changes, as a function of time, having acomponent that is perpendicular to the plane of the winding. Therefore,in the case of detection of electromagnetic radiation generated byaccelerating charges, a planar winding is most sensitive toelectromagnetic radiation generated by accelerating charges moving in adirection parallel to the plane of the winding, and least sensitive toelectromagnetic radiation generated by accelerating charges moving in adirection orthogonal to the plane of the winding.

In one embodiment, the windings of radiation sensing unit 1310 are woundaround a straight, common axis, with individual windings beingsubstantially in a plane orthogonal to this axis. In this embodiment,radiation sensing unit 1310 is more sensitive to electromagneticradiation generated by electrical current propagating perpendicularly tothis axis than to electromagnetic radiation generated by electricalcurrent propagating along this axis. In another embodiment, the windingsof radiation sensing unit 1310 are wound around a two- orthree-dimensional axis such that radiation sensing unit 1310 issensitive to electromagnetic radiation generated from change inelectrical current of any propagation direction. In yet anotherembodiment, radiation sensing unit 1310 includes a plurality of pickupcoils wound around energy device 210 in a plurality of orientations.

Radiation sensing unit 1310 is an embodiment of sensing unit 220 (FIG.2). Energy unit 1300 is an embodiment of energy unit 200 (FIG. 2). Inone embodiment, energy unit 1300 includes a radiation sensing unit 1310for each energy device 210 included in energy unit 1300. In anotherembodiment, only a portion of energy devices 210 are associated withrespective radiation sensing units 1310.

FIG. 14 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energy unit1400 configured for abnormality detection based upon sensing ofelectromagnetic radiation, using elongated pickup coils placed the sidesof individual electrical/electrochemical energy devices.Electrical/electrochemical energy unit 1400 is thus configured fordetection of abnormality 180 (FIG. 1). Electrical/electrochemical energyunit 1400 includes energy unit 1200 (FIG. 12) and one or more radiationsensing units 1410. Radiation sensing unit 1410 is an elongated pickupcoil. Radiation sensing unit 1410 is an embodiment of sensing unit 220(FIG. 2). Energy unit 1400 is an embodiment of energy unit 200 (FIG. 2).For clarity of illustration, not all radiation sensing units 1410 arelabeled in FIG. 14.

FIG. 15 is a diagram 1500 that schematically illustrates one exemplaryradiation sensing unit 1410 (FIG. 14). Radiation sensing unit 1410 haswindings 1510 wound around a substantially straight axis 1520. Axis 1520is parallel to a longer dimension 1530 of radiation sensing unit 1410.Thus, radiation sensing unit 1410 is more sensitive to electromagneticradiation propagating along dimension 1530.

Referring to FIG. 14, energy unit 1400 is similar to energy unit 1300(FIG. 13) except for radiation sensing units 1310 (FIG. 13) beingreplaced by radiation sensing units 1410. Radiation sensing unit 1410may be mounted directly onto energy device 210, be included in energydevice 210, for example integrated in packaging of energy device 1410,or be mounted at a distance from energy device 210. In one embodiment,an energy device 210 in energy unit 1400 is associated with only asingle radiation sensing unit 1410. In another embodiment, an energydevice 210 included in energy unit 1400 is associated with a pluralityof radiation sensing units 1410. As indicated in FIG. 14, the pluralityof radiation sensing units 1410 may include radiation sensing units 1410with respective longer dimensions 1530 of different orientations.According to the discussion of directional sensitivity of pickup coilwindings, this provides improved sensitivity to electromagneticradiation generated from change in electrical current having arbitrarypropagation direction. Additionally, signals from a plurality of sensingunits 1410 with respective longer dimensions 1530 of differentorientations may be processed to obtain information about the directionof the electrical current giving rise to the signals.

FIG. 16 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energy unit1600 configured for abnormality detection based upon sensing ofelectromagnetic radiation, using planar pickup coils placed the sides ofindividual electrical/electrochemical energy devices.Electrical/electrochemical energy unit 1600 is thus configured fordetection of abnormality 180 (FIG. 1). Electrical/electrochemical energyunit 1600 includes energy unit 1200 (FIG. 12) and one or more radiationsensing units 1610. Radiation sensing unit 1610 is a substantiallyplanar pickup coil. Radiation sensing unit 1610 is an embodiment ofsensing unit 220 (FIG. 2). Energy unit 1600 is an embodiment of energyunit 200 (FIG. 2). For clarity of illustration, not all radiationsensing units 1610 are labeled in FIG. 16.

FIG. 17 is a diagram 1700 that schematically illustrates one exemplaryradiation sensing unit 1610 (FIG. 16). Radiation sensing unit 1610 issubstantially parallel to a plane 1710 and has at least one windingwound around an axis 1720 that is orthogonal to plane 1710. Thus,radiation sensing unit 1410 is more sensitive to electromagneticradiation propagating orthogonally to plane 1710.

Referring to FIG. 16, energy unit 1600 is similar to energy unit 1500(FIG. 15) except for radiation sensing units 1510 (FIG. 15) beingreplaced by radiation sensing units 1610. Radiation sensing unit 1610may be mounted directly onto energy device 210, be included in energydevice 210, for example integrated in packaging of energy device 1610,or be mounted at a distance from energy device 210. In one embodiment,an energy device 210 in energy unit 1600 is associated with only asingle radiation sensing unit 1610. In another embodiment, an energydevice 210 included in energy unit 1600 is associated with a pluralityof radiation sensing units 1610. As indicated in FIG. 16, the pluralityof radiation sensing units 1610 may include radiation sensing units 1610of different orientations. This provides improved sensitivity toelectromagnetic radiation generated from change in electrical currenthaving arbitrary propagation direction. Additionally, signals from aplurality of sensing units 1610 of different orientations may beprocessed to obtain information about the direction of the electricalcurrent giving rise to the signals.

FIG. 18 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energy unit1800 configured for abnormality detection based upon sensing ofelectromagnetic radiation, using magnetic induction sensors placedaround individual electrical connections within theelectrical/electrochemical energy unit. Electrical/electrochemicalenergy unit 1800 is thus configured for detection of abnormality 180(FIG. 1). Electrical/electrochemical energy unit 1800 includes energyunit 1200 (FIG. 12) and one or more radiation sensing units 1810 placedaround electrical connections 311 (FIGS. 3 and 12). Radiation sensingunit 1810 is an embodiment of sensing unit 320 (FIG. 3). Energy unit1600 is an embodiment of energy unit 300 (FIG. 3). For clarity ofillustration, not all radiation sensing units 1610 are labeled in FIG.16. Radiation sensing unit 1810 is a magnetic induction sensor, such asa toroidal inductor. Radiation sensing unit 1810 is therefore sensitiveto changes in current passing through the corresponding electricalconnection 311, through its coupling with the electromagnetic fieldassociated with electrical connection 311. In other words, a change incurrent passing through electrical connection 311 produceselectromagnetic radiation which is sensed by radiation sensing unit1810. The change in current may be caused by an abnormality inelectrical connection 311, such as a short or break, or be caused by anabnormality in an energy device 210 that is either directly orindirectly connected with electrical connection 311. Accordingly,radiation sensors 1810 may detect abnormalities in electricalconnections 311 and/or energy devices 210.

FIGS. 19A and 19B schematically illustrate an exemplary embodiment ofradiation sensing unit 1810 (FIG. 18). FIG. 19A is a diagram 1900showing radiation sensing unit 1810 in perspective view. Radiationsensing unit 1810 is substantially parallel to a plane 1910 that isorthogonal to a portion of electrical connection 311 (FIGS. 3, 12, and18).

FIG. 19B illustrates one exemplary toroidal inductor 1950 which is anembodiment of radiation sensor 1810 (FIG. 18). FIG. 19B shows a crosssectional view of toroidal inductor 1950, where the cross section istaken along line 19B-19B of FIG. 19A. Toroidal inductor 1950 includeswindings 1960 wound around a core 1970 that follows a closed-loop path1980. For example, closed-loop path 1980 may be circular, oval,rectangular, square or have another substantially planar shape, suchthat closed-loop path 1980 is substantially parallel to plane 1910 (FIG.19A). In an embodiment, core 1970 includes a ferromagnetic material forproviding increased sensitivity of magnetically induced current inwindings 1960 to changes in electrical current through electricalconnection 311.

Referring to FIG. 18, energy unit 1800 may include one or more radiationsensors 1810. Although illustrated with a radiation sensor 1810 forevery individual electrical connection 311 connected to an energy device210, energy unit may include fewer or more radiation sensors 1810, andenergy devices 210, than shown in FIG. 18, without departing from thescope hereof.

FIG. 20 illustrates one exemplary electrical/electrochemical energy unit2000 configured for abnormality detection based upon electromagneticradiation sensing using sensing units located on the exterior ofelectrical/electrochemical energy unit 2000. Electrical/electrochemicalenergy unit 2000 is thus configured for detection of abnormality 180(FIG. 1). Electrical/electrochemical unit 2000 includes energy unit 1200(FIG. 12) and an enclosure 1290. Enclosure 1290 includes at least oneradiation sensing unit 2010. Radiation sensing unit 2010 is anembodiment of sensing unit 410 (FIG. 4). Energy unit 2000 is anembodiment of energy system 400 (FIG. 4). Radiation sensing unit 2010may be located externally to enclosure 1290 or inside enclosure 1290,without departing from the scope hereof. In an embodiment, radiationsensing unit is a pickup coil such as radiation sensing unit 1410 (FIGS.14 and 15) or radiation sensing unit 1610 (FIGS. 16 and 17).

In an embodiment, energy unit 2000 includes a plurality of radiationsensing units 1610. In an embodiment, energy unit 2000 includes aplurality of directionally sensitive radiation sensing units 1610 ofdifferent orientations, to improve sensitivity to detection ofelectromagnetic radiation generated by electrical current of arbitrarypropagation direction. In an embodiment, energy unit 2000 includes asingle radiation sensing unit 2010. In an embodiment, energy unit 2000includes a single radiation sensing unit 2010 that is sensitive toelectromagnetic radiation generated by electrical current of arbitrarypropagation direction.

One or more of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 13 through 20 may becombined as discussed in connection with FIGS. 5 through 8, withoutdeparting from the scope hereof. While the radiation sensing unitembodiments of FIGS. 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 20 are discussed as beingpickup coils, these radiation sensing units may be other sensing devicessensitive to magnetic field changes as a function of time, such as aHall-effect probe, an inductor, a high electrical-conductivity spiral, apickup coil including a ferrite core, or a toroidal inductor, withoutdeparting from the scope hereof.

FIG. 21 illustrates one exemplary method 2100 for detecting anabnormality, such as abnormality 180 (FIG. 1), in anelectrical/electrochemical energy device or unit utilizing sensing ofelectromagnetic radiation generated by the abnormality. Method 2100 isperformed, for example, by abnormality detection system 900 (FIG. 9) orby abnormality detection system 1100 (FIG. 11).

In a step 2110, a sensor signal is generated in response toelectromagnetic radiation. For example, radiation sensor 910 ofabnormality detection system 900 (FIG. 9) generates a sensor signal inresponse to electromagnetic radiation sensed by one or more sensingunits 915 (FIG. 9). In an embodiment, step 2110 includes a step 2112,wherein an electrical sensor signal is induced by electromagneticradiation. For example, radiation sensor 910 (FIG. 9) generates anelectrical signal that is induced by electromagnetic radiation in one ormore sensing units 915 (FIG. 9). Optionally, step 2112 includes a step2114 of using a sensor that is sensitive to at least changes, as afunction of time, in magnetic field. For example, radiation sensor 910(FIG. 9) includes, for generating an electrical signal that is inducedby electromagnetic radiation, at least one sensing unit 915 (FIG. 9)implemented according to one or more of the embodiments specified bysensing unit 1310 (FIG. 13), sensing unit 1410 (FIGS. 14 and 15),sensing unit 1610 (FIGS. 16 and 17), and sensing unit 1810 (FIGS. 18 and19). In another example, radiation sensor 910 (FIG. 9) includes, forgenerating an electrical signal that is induced by electromagneticradiation, at least one sensing unit 915 (FIG. 9) implemented as aHall-effect probe, an inductor, a pickup coil including a ferrite core,or a high electrical-conductivity spiral.

In a step 2120, the sensor signal generated in step 2110 is communicatedto a processing module. For example, radiation sensor 910 (FIG. 9)communicates a sensor signal to processing module 930 via interface 920.In an embodiment, the sensor signal is communicated to the processingmodule using a wireless interface. For example, radiation sensor 910(FIG. 9) communicates a sensor signal to processing module 930 viawireless interface 925. In a step 2130, the sensor signal is processedto isolate a signal feature indicative of an abnormality in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit under consideration. For example,processor 940 (FIG. 9) processes the sensor signal received in step 2120according to instructions 960 (FIG. 9) to isolate the signal feature.Optionally, processor 940 (FIG. 9) utilizes abnormality criteria 966(FIG. 9) to isolate the signal feature from other features of the sensorsignal. Isolation of signal features is further discussed below inconnection with FIG. 27. In certain embodiments, step 2130 includesfiltering the sensor signal to reduce components of the sensor signalnot associated with the abnormality. For example, step 2130 may includefiltering out frequencies outside a frequency range of interest and/orWiener filtering. In certain embodiments, method 2100 is capable ofisolating the signal feature, and thus detect the abnormality associatedtherewith, in less than 10 milliseconds after occurrence of theabnormality.

In an embodiment, method 2100 further includes a step 2140, whereinidentification of an abnormality in an electrical/electrochemical energyunit is communicated to a control unit associated with theelectrical/electrochemical energy unit. For example, processor 930 (FIG.9) communicates to control unit 140 (FIGS. 1 and 9) that a signalfeature indicative of an abnormality in energy unit 905 (FIG. 9) hasbeen identified. In an embodiment, method 2100 further includes a step2150, wherein a control measure is invokes to at least a portion of anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit associated with the abnormality.For example, control unit 140 (FIGS. 1 and 9) invokes a control measure,as discussed in connection with FIG. 1, to at least a portion of energyunit 905 (FIG. 9) associated with the abnormality.

In one embodiment, method 2100 is executed as a passive abnormalitydetection method, wherein no signals are applied to theelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device to induce generation ofthe electromagnetic radiation of step 2110. In another embodiment,method 2100 is executed as a system response based abnormality detectionmethod. In this embodiment, method 2100 further includes a step 2105performed prior to step 2110, wherein a signal is applied to theelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device. The signal may be, forexample, an electrical signal, a low-power high-frequency signal withfrequency in the range between 1 kilohertz and 10 gigahertz, a low-powerhigh-frequency signal with frequency in the range between megahertz and10 gigahertz, a current in the range between 1 milliampere and 1 ampere,a signal with time-dependent frequency, electromagnetic radiation, amagnetic field, or a chemical interaction. For example, transmitter unit980 (FIG. 9) applies a signal, as discussed in connection with FIG. 9,to electrical/electrochemical energy unit 905 (FIG. 9) to inducegeneration of a sensor signal having the signal feature discussed inconnection with step 2130.

FIG. 22 illustrates one exemplary method 2200 that utilizes sensing ofelectromagnetic radiation to detect and spatially locate an abnormality,such as abnormality 180 (FIG. 1), in an electrical/electrochemicalenergy unit or device. Method 2200 is performed, for example, byabnormality detection system 900 (FIG. 9) or by abnormality detectionsystem 1100 (FIG. 11). Method 2200 is an embodiment of method 2100 (FIG.21).

In a step 2210, a sensor signal is generated in response toelectromagnetic radiation. Step 2210 is an embodiment of step 2110 ofmethod 2100 (FIG. 21), which includes steps 2212 and 2218. In step 2212,electromagnetic radiation is sensed in a plurality of differentlocations. For example, radiation sensor 910 (FIG. 9) senseselectromagnetic radiation using a plurality of sensing units 915 (FIG.9) located in a respective plurality of different locations with respectto electrical/electrochemical energy unit 905 (FIG. 9). FIGS. 13, 14,16, 18, and 20, and combinations thereof, provide examples of spatialconfigurations of sensing units 915 (FIG. 9). In an embodiment, step2212 includes a step 2214, wherein the magnitude of electromagneticradiation is sensed. For example, each of a plurality of sensing units915 (FIG. 9) senses magnitude of electromagnetic radiation at thelocation of the sensing unit 915. In an embodiment, step 2212 includes astep 2216, wherein the magnitude of electromagnetic radiation is sensedwith directional sensitivity, such that information about direction ofelectrical current responsible for generating the electromagneticradiation may be deduced. For example, each of a plurality of sensingunits 915 (FIG. 9) are implemented as a directionally sensitive magneticinduction device, such as sensing unit 1310 (FIG. 13), sensing unit 1410(FIGS. 14 and 15), sensing unit 1610 (FIGS. 16 and 17), or sensing unit18 (FIGS. 18 and 19). Alternatively, each of a plurality of sensingunits 915 (FIG. 9) may be implemented as a Hall-effect probe. In step2218, a sensor signal, having a plurality of sensor signal components,is generated. For example, each of a plurality of sensing units 915(FIG. 9) generates, from sensing of electromagnetic radiation, arespective component of a sensor signal. Sensor signal components may bezero or empty, representative of sensing no electromagnetic radiation,without departing from the scope hereof. In a step 2220, method 2200performs step 2120 of method 2100 (FIG. 21).

In a step 2230, the sensor signal generated in step 2210 is processed toisolate a signal feature indicative of an abnormality in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device. Step 2230 is anembodiment of step 2130 of method 2100 (FIG. 21), which further includesa step 2232. In step 2232, the abnormality is spatially located. Forexample, processor 940 (FIG. 9) processes, according to instructions 960(FIG. 9), the sensor signal generated in step 2210 to spatially locatedthe abnormality. Step 2232 includes a step 2234, and, optionally, one orboth of steps 2236 and 2238. In step 2234, the plurality of sensorsignal components generated in step 2218 are compared. In optional step2236, information about the configuration of sensors used in step 2210is utilized. In optional step 2238 information about the configurationof the electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device underconsideration is utilized. For example, processor 940 (FIG. 9) compares,according to instructions 960 (FIG. 9), the plurality of sensor signalcomponents generated in step 2218 to spatially locate an abnormality inelectrical/electrochemical energy unit 905 (FIG. 9). Processor 940 (FIG.9) may retrieve one or more of Maxwell's equations, the wave equation,the Larmor formula, and battery equations including thermodynamics andkinetics from instructions 960 (FIG. 9), to deduce the spatial locationof the abnormality from the sensor signal components. Optionally,processor 940 (FIG. 9) retrieves one or both radiation sensorconfiguration 964 (FIG. 9) and energy unit configuration 962 (FIG. 9) toaccount for spatial configurations and other properties of one or moreof sensor 910 (FIG. 9) and electrical/electrochemical energy unit 905(FIG. 9), respectively. In certain embodiments, method 2200 is capableof isolating the signal feature, and thus detect the abnormalityassociated therewith, as well as spatially locating the abnormality inless than 10 milliseconds after occurrence of the abnormality.

In an embodiment, method 2200 further includes a step 2240. In step2240, method 2200 performs step 2140, and optionally step 2150, ofmethod 2100 (FIG. 21). In one embodiment, method 2200 is executed as apassive abnormality detection method, wherein no signals are applied tothe electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device to inducegeneration of the electromagnetic radiation of step 2210. In anotherembodiment, method 2200 is executed as a system response basedabnormality detection method. In this embodiment, method 2200 furtherincludes a step 2205 performed prior to step 2210, wherein method 2200performs step 2105 of method 2100 (FIG. 21).

FIG. 23 illustrates one exemplary method 2300 for passively detecting anabnormality, such as abnormality 180 (FIG. 1), in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit using sensing of electromagneticradiation. Method 2300 is performed, for example, by abnormalitydetection system 900 (FIG. 9) or abnormality detection system 1100 (FIG.11), without using transmitter unit 980 (FIG. 9) to induce generation ofthe electromagnetic radiation. In a step 2310, electromagnetic radiationgenerated by an abnormality is passively detected. For example, sensor910 and processing module 930 of abnormality detection system 900 (FIG.9) cooperate to passively detect electromagnetic radiation generated byan abnormality in electrical/electrochemical energy unit 905 (FIG. 9).The electromagnetic radiation is generated by the abnormality withoutusing externally applied signals to deliberately induce generation ofthe electromagnetic radiation. In certain embodiments, method 2300 iscapable of detecting the abnormality in less than 10 milliseconds afteroccurrence of the abnormality.

In an embodiment, step 2310 includes a step 2312, wherein method 2300performs steps 2110, 2120, and 2130 of method 2100 (FIG. 21). In certainembodiments, method 2300 further includes a step 2320 and, optionally, astep 2330. In step 2320, method 2300 performs step 2140 of method 2100(FIG. 21). In step 2330, method 2300 performs step 2150 of method 2100(FIG. 21).

FIG. 24 illustrates one exemplary method 2400 for passively detectingand spatially locating an abnormality in an electrical/electrothemicalenergy unit or device using sensing of electromagnetic radiation. Method2400 is performed, for example, by abnormality detection system 900(FIG. 9) or abnormality detection system 1100 (FIG. 11).

In a step 2410, an abnormality in an electrical/electrochemical energyunit or device is passively detected, using a plurality of sensing unitslocated in a respective plurality of different locations to senseelectromagnetic radiation generated by the abnormality. Theelectromagnetic radiation is generated by the abnormality without usingexternally applied signals to deliberately induce generation of theelectromagnetic radiation. For example, sensor 910, using a plurality ofsensing units 915 located in a respective plurality of differentlocations, and processing module 930 of abnormality detection system 900(FIG. 9) cooperate to passively detect electromagnetic radiationgenerated by an abnormality in electrical/electrochemical energy unit905 (FIG. 9). In an embodiment, step 2410 includes a step 2412, whereinmethod 2400 performs steps 2110, 2120, and 2130 of method 2100 (FIG.21).

In a step 2420, the abnormality is spatially located. For example,processing module 930 (FIG. 9) processes passive measurements performedby a plurality of sensing units 915 (FIG. 9), positioned in plurality ofdifferent locations, to spatially locate the abnormality. In anembodiment, step 2420 includes a step 2422, wherein method 2400 performsstep 2232 of method 2200 (FIG. 22). In certain embodiments, method 2400is capable of detecting and spatially locating the abnormality in lessthan 10 milliseconds after occurrence of the abnormality. In certainembodiments, method 2400 further includes a step 2430 and, optionally, astep 2440. In step 2430 method 2400 performs step 2140 of method 2100(FIG. 21). In step 2440, method 2400 performs step 2150 of method 2100(FIG. 21).

FIG. 25 illustrates one exemplary method 2500 for performing step 2110of method 2100 (FIG. 21). When performing method 2100 (FIG. 21) withmethod 2500 implemented as step 2110 (FIG. 21), an abnormality in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device is detected using onlya single sensing unit. Method 2500 is performed, for example, by sensor910 of abnormality detection system 900 (FIG. 9). In a step 2502,electromagnetic radiation is sensed in only a single location. Forexample, sensor 910 (FIG. 9) includes only a single sensing unit 915(FIG. 9), which senses electromagnetic radiation.

In an embodiment, step 2502 includes a step 2504. In step 2504, adirectionally insensitive sensing unit is used to sense theelectromagnetic radiation. This helps ensure detection of abnormalitiesassociated with electrical current of arbitrary propagation direction.For example, sensor 910 (FIG. 9) includes only a single sensing unit 915(FIG. 9), which is directionally insensitive. This sensing unit may be,for example, a pickup coil with windings wound around a two- orthree-dimensional axis. Alternatively, the single sensing unit includesa plurality of directionally sensitive sensing units, such as a pickupcoil with windings would around a one-dimensional axis, having arespective plurality of different orientations.

FIG. 26 illustrates one exemplary method 2600 for detecting anabnormality, such as abnormality 180 (FIG. 1), in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device using a plurality ofdifferent detection methodologies. Method 2600 may be performed, forexample, by abnormality detection system 1100 (FIG. 11) utilizing bothsensing of electromagnetic radiation and electrical properties. Inanother example, method 2600 is performed by abnormality detectionsystem 900 (FIG. 9) in combination with sensors for measuring otherproperties such as temperature, pressure, humidity, magnetization,magnetic Curie temperature, state of health, state of charge, and/or acombination thereof. In yet another example, method 2600 is performed byabnormality detection system 1000 (FIG. 10) in combination with sensorsfor measuring other properties such as temperature, pressure, humidity,magnetization, magnetic Curie temperature, state of health, state ofcharge, and/or a combination thereof.

Method 2600 includes at least two of steps 2610, 2620, and 2630. Method2600 may perform a combination of steps 2610, 2620, and 2630 in series,parallel, or a combination thereof. In a step 2610, method 2600 performsstep 2110 of method 2100 (FIG. 21) to generate a first sensor signal. Ina step 2620, a second sensor signal is generated using a sensor that iselectrically connected to the electrical/electrochemical energy unit ordevice under investigation. For example, sensor 1010 (FIGS. 10 and 11)generates a second sensor signal. In a step 2630, a third sensor signalis generated using sensors for sensing properties such as temperature,pressure, humidity, magnetization, magnetic Curie temperature, state ofcharge, state of health, another state variable (physical, chemical, orphysical-chemical), a performance metric, and/or a combination thereof.For example, the third sensor signal is generated by one or moresensors, selected from the group of temperature sensors, pressuresensors, humidity sensors, magnetization sensors, state of healthsensors, and/or state of charge sensors, communicatively coupled withprocessing module 1130 of abnormality detection system 1100 (FIG. 11).

In a step 2640, at least two of the first, second, and third sensorsignals are communicated to a processing module. For example, at leasttwo of radiation sensor 910 (FIGS. 9 and 11), electrical sensor 1010(FIGS. 10 and 11), and one or more sensors, selected from the group oftemperature sensors, pressure sensors, humidity sensors, magnetizationsensors, state of health sensors, and/or state of charge sensors,communicated sensor signals to processing module 1130 (FIG. 11). In astep 2650, at least two of the first, second, and third sensor signalsare processed to identify occurrence, existence, and/or properties of anabnormality in the electrical/electrochemical energy unit or deviceunder investigation. For example, processor 940 (FIGS. 9 and 11)processes at least two of the first, second, and third sensor signals,according to instructions 1160 (FIG. 11), to identify occurrence,existence, and/or properties of an abnormality inelectrical/electrochemical energy unit 905 (FIGS. 9 and 11). In certainembodiments, method 2600 is capable of identifying an abnormality inless than 10 milliseconds after occurrence of the abnormality.

In an embodiment, method 2600 includes a step 2660. In step 2660, method2600 performs step 2140 and, optionally step 2150 of method 2100 (FIG.21). In one embodiment, method 2600 is executed as a passive abnormalitydetection method, wherein no signals are applied to theelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device to induce generation ofthe first, second, and third sensor signals. In another embodiment,method 2600 is executed as a system response based abnormality detectionmethod. In this embodiment, method 2600 further includes a step 2605performed prior to step 2610, wherein method 2600 performs step 2105 ofmethod 2100 (FIG. 21). The signal may be, for example, an electricalsignal, a low-power high-frequency signal with frequency in the rangebetween 1 kilohertz and 10 gigahertz, a magnetic field, or a chemicalinteraction. For example, transmitter unit 980 (FIGS. 9 and 11) appliesa signal to electrical/electrochemical energy unit 905 (FIG. 9) toinduce generation of one of more of the first, second, and third sensorsignals.

Methods 2100 (FIG. 21), 2200 (FIGS. 22), and 2600 (FIG. 26) may beperformed according to a combination of passive abnormality detectionand system response based abnormality detection, without departing fromthe scope hereof. In certain embodiments, abnormality detection system900 (FIG. 9), abnormality detection system 1000 (FIG. 100), andabnormality detection system 1100 (FIG. 11) may utilize transmitter unit980 (FIG. 9) to perform continuous or regular system response basedabnormality detection, while also performing passive abnormalitydetection. For example, some sensing units may be configured for systemresponse based abnormality detection, while other sensing units areconfigured for passive abnormality detection. In another example, thesame set of sensing units are used for both system response basedabnormality detection and passive abnormality detection.

FIG. 27 illustrates, through exemplary sensor signals, isolation of asignal feature indicating the occurrence or existence of an abnormalityin an electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device. Thus, FIG. 27illustrates an element of step 2130 (FIG. 21) and of step 2650 (FIG.26).

Diagram 2710 illustrates a sensor signal 2711, plotted as magnitude(2702) of sensor signal 2711 as a function of time (2701). Sensor signal2711 includes a signal feature 2712, associated with an abnormality inan electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device, and other signalfeatures such as a signal feature 2714. Signal feature 2712 has duration2713, which is shorter than the duration of signal feature 2714.Additionally, signal feature 2712 spans a relatively large magnituderange and reaches a relatively large absolute magnitude, as compared toother signal features, such as signal feature 2714. Thus signal feature2712 may be isolated from other signal features, such as signal feature2714, using criteria such as duration, magnitude, magnitude range, and acombination thereof. In an embodiment, abnormality criteria 966 (FIG. 9)includes such criteria. The criteria may be, for example, a signalstrength of at least 2 volts and a pulse duration less than 1millisecond, less than 10 milliseconds, or less than 100 milliseconds.

Diagram 2720 illustrates a sensor signal 2721, plotted as magnitude(2702) of sensor signal 2721 as a function of time (2701). Sensor signal2721 includes a signal feature 2722, associated with an abnormality inan electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device, and other signalfeatures such as a signal feature 2724. Signal feature 2722 has duration2723, which is similar to the duration of signal feature 2724. However,signal feature 2722 spans a relatively large magnitude range and reachesa relatively large absolute magnitude, as compared to other signalfeatures, such as signal feature 2724. Thus signal feature 2722 may beisolated from other signal features, such as signal feature 2724, usingcriteria such as magnitude, magnitude range, and a combination thereof.In an embodiment, abnormality criteria 966 (FIG. 9) includes suchcriteria.

Diagram 2730 illustrates a sensor signal 2731, plotted as magnitude(2702) of sensor signal 2731 as a function of time (2701). Sensor signal2731 includes two signal features 2732 and 2734, associated with anabnormality in an electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device, andother signal features not labeled in FIG. 27. Signal feature 2732 hasduration 2733, and signal feature 2734 has duration 2735 which issimilar to duration 2733. Both of signal features 2732 and 2734 span arelatively large magnitude range and reach a relatively large absolutemagnitude, as compared to other signal features. Thus signal features2732 and 2734 may be isolated from other signal features using criteriasuch as magnitude, magnitude range, and a combination thereof. In anembodiment, abnormality criteria 966 (FIG. 9) includes such criteria.

Other criteria for isolating a signal feature associated with anabnormality in an electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device maybe used and/or included in abnormality criteria 966 (FIG. 9) withoutdeparting from the scope hereof. For example, criteria may include oneor more of frequency of high-frequency modulation within a feature,number or repetitive features, the feature being non-repetitive,waveform of feature, rise-time, sign, and/or a combination thereof.

FIG. 28 illustrates one exemplary method 2800 for detecting anabnormality, such as abnormality 180 (FIG. 1), in anelectrical/electrochemical energy unit or device, utilizing a pluralityof sensors to perform a system response measurement. Method 2800 isperformed, for example, by abnormality detection system 900 (FIG. 9),abnormality detection system 1000 (FIG. 10), or abnormality detectionsystem 1100 (FIG. 11).

In a step 2810, method 2800 performs step 2105 of method 2100 (FIG. 21).In one example, transmitter unit 980 (FIG. 9) transmits an electricalsignal to an electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device. Inanother example, transmitter unit 980 (FIG. 9) transmits a signal inform of electromagnetic radiation to an electrical/electrochemicalenergy unit or device. In a step 2820, a plurality of measurements, ofthe response to the signal applied in step 2810, are performed at aplurality of different locations within the electrical/electrochemicalenergy unit or device. For example, abnormality detection system 1100(FIG. 11) performs a plurality of system response measurements usingsensing units 915 (FIGS. 9 and 11) and or sensing units 1015 (FIGS. 10and 11) position in a plurality of different locations withinelectrical/electrochemical energy unit 905 (FIGS. 9 and 11). Optionally,abnormality detection system 1100 (FIG. 11) further utilizes sensors formeasuring temperature, pressure, humidity, magnetization, magnetic Curietemperature, state of health, state of charge, and/or a combinationthereof. In certain embodiments of method 2800, step 2810 is performedby at least a portion of the sensors or sensing units used to performstep 2820. This embodiment corresponds to transmitter unit 980 (FIGS. 9,10, and 11) including one or more of sensing units 915 (FIGS. 9 and 11)and 1015 (FIGS. 10 and 11)

In one embodiment, step 2820 includes a step 2822, wherein a pluralityof electrical measurements are performed, using sensing unitselectrically connected to the energy unit. For example, abnormalitydetection system 1000 (FIG. 10) performs a plurality of system responsemeasurements using sensing units 1015 (FIG. 10) position in a pluralityof different locations within electrical/electrochemical energy unit 905(FIGS. 9 and 10). In this embodiment, all of method 2800 may beperformed by abnormality detection system 1000 (FIG. 10). In anotherembodiment, step 2820 includes a step 2824, wherein a plurality ofmeasurements of electromagnetic radiation is performed using sensingunits sensitive to electromagnetic radiation. For example, abnormalitydetection system 900 (FIG. 9) performs a plurality of system responsemeasurements using sensing units 915 (FIG. 9) position in a plurality ofdifferent locations within electrical/electrochemical energy unit 905(FIG. 9). In this embodiment, all of method 2800 may be performed byabnormality detection system 900 (FIG. 9). In yet another embodiment,step 2820 includes a step 2826 in addition to one or both of steps 2822and 2824. In step 2826, at least one measurement of a state variableand/or performance metric of the energy unit is performed. The statevariable and/or performance metric includes, for example, temperature,pressure, humidity, magnetization, magnetic Curie temperature, state ofcharge, state of health, and/or a combination thereof. For example, suchmeasurements may be performed by one or more sensors, selected from thegroup of temperature sensors, pressure sensors, humidity sensors,magnetization sensors, state of health sensors, and/or state of chargesensors, communicatively coupled with processing module 1130 ofabnormality detection system 1100 (FIG. 11). In yet another embodiment,step 2820 includes an embodiment of step 2826, wherein the at least onemeasurement is a plurality of measurements. In a further embodiment,step 2820 includes one or more of steps 2822, 2824, and 2826. In thisembodiment, all of method 2800 may be performed by abnormality detectionsystem 1100 (FIG. 11).

In a step 2830, measurements performed in step 2820 are communicated toa processing module. For example, sensor 1010 (FIGS. 10 and 11)communicates the measurements to processing module 1030 (FIG. 10) orprocessing module 1130 (FIG. 11) via interface 1020 (FIGS. 10 and 11).In a step 2840, the measurements generated in step 2820 are processed toidentify occurrence, existence, and/or properties of an abnormality inan electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device. For example,processor 940 (FIGS. 9, 10, and 11) processes the measurement accordingto instructions 960 (FIG. 9), 1060 (FIG. 10), or 1160 (FIG. 11) toidentify occurrence, existence, and/or properties of an abnormality inelectrical/electrochemical energy unit 905 (FIGS. 9, 10, and 11). Incertain embodiments, method 2800 is capable of identifying anabnormality in less than 10 milliseconds after occurrence of theabnormality. In an embodiment, method 2800 further includes a step 2850,wherein method 2800 performs step 2140, and optionally step 2150, ofmethod 2100 (FIG. 21).

FIG. 29 illustrates one exemplary method 2900 for detecting andspatially locating an abnormality, such as abnormality 180 (FIG. 1), inan electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device, utilizing aplurality of sensors to perform a system response measurement. Method2900 is performed, for example, by abnormality detection system 900(FIG. 9), abnormality detection system 1000 (FIG. 10), or abnormalitydetection system 1100 (FIG. 11). In a step 2910, method 2900 performssteps 2810, 2820, and 2830 of method 2800 (FIG. 28).

In a step 2920, the measurements generated in step 2910 are processed toidentify occurrence, existence, and/or properties of an abnormality inan electrical/electrochemical energy unit or device. Step 2920 is anembodiment of step 2840 of method 2800 (FIG. 28), which further includesa step 2922. In step 2922, the abnormality is spatially located. Forexample, processor 940 (FIGS. 9 and 10) processes, according toinstructions 1060 (FIG. 9), the sensor signal generated in step 2910 tospatially located the abnormality. In an embodiment, step 2922 includesat a step 2924, and, optionally, one or both of steps 2926 and 2928. Instep 2924, measurements performed in different locations in step 2910are compared. In optional step 2926, information about the configurationof sensors used in step 2910 is utilized. In optional step 2928information about the configuration of the electrical/electrochemicalenergy unit or device under consideration is utilized. For example,processor 1040 (FIG. 10) compares, according to instructions 1060 (FIG.10), measurements associated with different locations and generated instep 2910 to spatially locate an abnormality inelectrical/electrochemical energy unit 905 (FIGS. 9 and 10). Processor940 (FIGS. 9 and 10) may retrieve one or more of Maxwell's equations,the wave equation, the Larmor formula, Ohm's law, Kirchhoff's circuitlaws, and battery equations including thermodynamics and kinetics frominstructions 960 (FIG. 9), to deduce the spatial location of theabnormality. Optionally, processor 940 (FIGS. 9 and 10) retrieves one orboth electrical sensor configuration 1064 (FIG. 10) and energy unitconfiguration 962 (FIGS. 9 and 10) to account for spatial configurationsand other properties of one or more of sensor 1010 (FIG. 10) andelectrical/electrochemical energy unit 905 (FIGS. 9 and 10),respectively. In certain embodiments, method 2900 is capable ofidentifying and spatially locating an abnormality in less than 10milliseconds after occurrence of the abnormality.

In an embodiment, method 2900 further includes a step 2930, whereinmethod 2900 performs step 2140, and optionally step 2150, of method 2100(FIG. 21).

Methods 2100 (FIG. 21), 2200 (FIG. 22), 2300 (FIG. 23), 2400 (FIG. 24),2500 (FIG. 25), 2600 (FIG. 26), 2800 (FIGS. 28), and 2900 (FIG. 29) maybe performed, for example, during operation, manufacture, or testing ofan electrical/electrochemical energy device, unit, or system.

The invention may be further understood by the following non-limitingexamples.

EXAMPLE 1 Electromagnetic Emission from Battery Cells

Experiment 1. A nickel zinc (NiZn) battery was positioned adjacent to asingle inductor with the inductor's terminals connected to anoscilloscope (FIG. 30, left panels). A short was created in the batterycell between the anode and the cathode and signals detected by theinductor were visualized using the oscilloscope (FIG. 30, right panel).A series of peaks were detected over a duration of less than 10milliseconds.

Experiment 2. A nickel zinc (NiZn) battery was positioned adjacent totwo inductors wired in series with the terminal ends of the inductorseries connected to an oscilloscope (FIG. 31, left panels). A short wascreated in the battery cell between the anode and the cathode andsignals detected by the inductors were visualized with the oscilloscope(FIG. 31, right panel). A series of peaks were detected over a durationof less than 5 milliseconds.

Experiment 3. A nickel zinc (NiZn) battery was positioned inside thecenter of a wound toroid with the toroid terminals connected to anoscilloscope (FIG. 32, left panel). A short was created in the batterycell between the anode and the cathode and signals detected by thetoroid were visualized with the oscilloscope (FIG. 32, right panel).Signals were detected over a duration of less than 25 microseconds.

Experiment 4. A coin cell battery was positioned inside the center of awound toroid with the toroid terminals connected to an oscilloscope(FIG. 33, left panel). A short was created in the battery cell betweenthe anode and the cathode and signals detected by the toroid werevisualized with the oscilloscope (FIG. 33, right panels). Signals weredetected over a duration of less than 0.5 milliseconds.

Experiment 5. A coin cell battery was positioned adjacent to an inductorwith the inductor terminals connected to an oscilloscope (FIG. 34, toppanel). An internal short was created in the coin cell by puncturing thecell and the signals detected by the inductor were visualized with theoscilloscope (FIG. 34, bottom panel). Signals were detected over aduration of less than 0.5 milliseconds.

EXAMPLE 2 Detection of Shorts in Electrical Equipment

This example describes detection of shorts in electrical equipment, suchas circuits or wires or other electronics, or in electrochemicalsystems, such as batteries such as lithium based batteries or alkalinebatteries or zinc batteries or nickel batteries or electrochemicalcapacitors or capacitors, by means of measuring changes in voltage,electromagnetic field or current by time (dVolt/dtime, dAmp/dtime). Thetime of change can be very short such as a few milliseconds or shortereven microseconds. The changes in the fields can be large such as 100%or more. In some cases voltage changes as large as twice the normalvoltage in a millisecond can be observed due to an electronic short, agood example is a small short between two layers of electrodes in an18650 lithium ion cell. The observed voltage change or current changecan show also in the form of change in electromagnetic field in theenvironment, for example a conductive coil such as copper coil located ameter away from an 18650 lithium ion cell can show induced voltage of upto 10 volts for a about a millisecond. A device to measure changes ofthe voltage, current or electromagnetic field in milliseconds orshorter, even if not directly connected to the electrochemical orelectrical system can help identify an electronic short. For example, adetector outside of a battery pack/module whether electronicallyconnected or not to the battery pack/module can help identify a smallshort in one or more of the battery cells in the pack/module, and thusgive enough time to the battery management unit or the user to safelycontrol the situation, for example by draining the specified cell orcells or by applying coolants or fire extinguishers or CO₂ gas or othermeasures to the pack/module.

Different types of shorts can occur in a battery cell. The mostdangerous short usually happens between the current collectors in alarge cell. As an example a short between aluminum cathode currentcollector and copper anode current collector in a 20 Ah prismatic li-ioncell can result in a short of resistance R˜10 mOhm and the short currentof I˜300 A, and the temperature may rise to up to 800 Celsius in just 10seconds. On the other hand a short between anode and cathode in the samecell results in R˜20 ohms and I˜0.2 A, and the temperature rises to only5 Celsius in 20 minutes. A short between aluminum current collector andthe anode will be R˜2 ohms and I˜2 A, and the temperature rises to 250Celsius in one hour. Thus, one of the most dangerous cases of shortinghappens between the opposite current collectors and is very difficult todetect by conventional direct methods such as looking at the totalcurrent and voltage of the cell or the temperature on the outside of thecell. As an example, in the a 20 Ah cell, it may take up to one minutefor the temperature of the cell to reach the temperature of the shortedarea, several hundreds of Celsius degrees, which is clearly too late toprevent the possible catastrophic failure.

Instead of just a short, a detectable abnormality can also be a majorchange in the state of health. A battery that is dying responds verydifferently to an electric signal, which shows itself in the inducedelectromagnetic radiation, and can be detected by the electromagneticsensors described herein. On the other hand, state of art methods can'tdetect the location or even presence of a cell having a low or degradingstate of health in a system because the parallel and series connectionsto other healthy cells compensate the response. This is a majoradvantage of using the methods disclosed herein. As an example, in oneembodiment an electric signal is sent in the network, directly; then theresponse on the direct measuring unit may not show any measurableabnormality, as the healthy cells provide the extra voltage or current.But the signal generates an electromagnetic radio, when passing throughthe unhealthy cell that has a different signature from healthy cells andcan be detected. Detection of the presence of unhealthy cells in thesystem results in longer cycle life and better safety.In addition to theindirect methods described herein using sensors, such as pickup coils,to detect electromagnetic radiation emitted by electric andelectromagnetic devices and systems, such as those comprisingelectrochemical cells or other power generation devices, direct methodscan be applied where the terminals of an electric or electromagneticdevice is monitored as an external signal is applied to the device. Inone example, an external signal is applied radiatively to a device, suchas by a transmitter. In another example, an external signal is applieddirectly to a device, such as by applying a voltage or current acrossthe terminals of the device. For embodiments where the terminals of adevice are directly monitored, time domain reflectrometry can beutilized for analyzing the signals generated by the devices in responseto an applied signal. In addition to monitoring temperature andelectrical properties, magnetic properties of the electric andelectromagnetic devices and systems can also be monitored, such as themagnetic susceptibility and/or magnetic Curie temperature, in order todetect abnormalities in the devices.

EXAMPLE 3 Detection of Abnormality in Electric Vehicle Power Systems

This example describes use of the methods and devices of the inventionfor monitoring and detecting abnormalities in Electric Vehicle PowerSystems. In general, electric vehicles utilize battery packs comprisingindividual battery cells or modules wired in series and/or in parallel.In this example, the entire battery pack of the vehicle is considered asa network. In one method embodiment of the invention, electromagneticfield meters, such as inductors are placed in two series: one series oflarger receivers are placed in a three dimensional array between oraround, in the case of a toroid inductor, individual prismatic batteriesor modules of cells, such as modules comprising a plurality of 18650cells; a second series of receivers are placed on the 6 sides of each ofbox-shaped battery cells. This latter series of inductors optionallycomprise one or more inductor coils on each surface of each battery cellto allow further refinement and characterization of the battery systems.

STATEMENTS REGARDING INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE AND VARIATIONS

All references throughout this application, for example patent documentsincluding issued or granted patents or equivalents; patent applicationpublications; and non-patent literature documents or other sourcematerial; are hereby incorporated by reference herein in theirentireties, as though individually incorporated by reference, to theextent each reference is at least partially not inconsistent with thedisclosure in this application (for example, a reference that ispartially inconsistent is incorporated by reference except for thepartially inconsistent portion of the reference).

All patents and publications mentioned in the specification areindicative of the levels of skill of those skilled in the art to whichthe invention pertains. References cited herein are incorporated byreference herein in their entirety to indicate the state of the art, insome cases as of their filing date, and it is intended that thisinformation can be employed herein, if needed, to exclude (for example,to disclaim) specific embodiments that are in the prior art. Forexample, when a compound is claimed, it should be understood thatcompounds known in the prior art, including certain compounds disclosedin the references disclosed herein (particularly in referenced patentdocuments), are not intended to be included in the claim.

When a group of substituents is disclosed herein, it is understood thatall individual members of those groups and all subgroups and classesthat can be formed using the substituents are disclosed separately. Whena Markush group or other grouping is used herein, all individual membersof the group and all combinations and subcombinations possible of thegroup are intended to be individually included in the disclosure. Asused herein, “and/or” means that one, all, or any combination of itemsin a list separated by “and/or” are included in the list; for example“1, 2 and/or 3” is equivalent to “‘1’ or ‘2’ or ‘3’ or ‘1 and 2’ or ‘1and 3’ or ‘2 and 3’ or ‘1, 2 and 3’”.

Every formulation or combination of components described or exemplifiedcan be used to practice the invention, unless otherwise stated. Specificnames of materials are intended to be exemplary, as it is known that oneof ordinary skill in the art can name the same material differently. Oneof ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that methods, deviceelements, starting materials, and synthetic methods other than thosespecifically exemplified can be employed in the practice of theinvention without resort to undue experimentation. All art-knownfunctional equivalents, of any such methods, device elements, startingmaterials, and synthetic methods are intended to be included in thisinvention. Whenever a range is given in the specification, for example,a temperature range, a time range, or a composition range, allintermediate ranges and subranges, as well as all individual valuesincluded in the ranges given are intended to be included in thedisclosure.

As used herein, “comprising” is synonymous with “including,”“containing,” or “characterized by,” and is inclusive or open-ended anddoes not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. As usedherein, “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient notspecified in the claim element. As used herein, “consisting essentiallyof” does not exclude materials or steps that do not materially affectthe basic and novel characteristics of the claim. Any recitation hereinof the term “comprising”, particularly in a description of components ofa composition or in a description of elements of a device, is understoodto encompass those compositions and methods consisting essentially ofand consisting of the recited components or elements. The inventionillustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in the absenceof any element or elements, limitation or limitations which is notspecifically disclosed herein.

The terms and expressions which have been employed are used as terms ofdescription and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the useof such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of thefeatures shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognizedthat various modifications are possible within the scope of theinvention claimed. Thus, it should be understood that although thepresent invention has been specifically disclosed by preferredembodiments and optional features, modification and variation of theconcepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in theart, and that such modifications and variations are considered to bewithin the scope of this invention as defined by the appended claims.

We claim:
 1. A method for detecting an abnormality in an energy unit,comprising: applying a signal to the energy unit, the energy unitcomprising at least one of: an electrical energy storage system, anelectrochemical energy storage system, an electrical energy harnessingsystem, and an electrochemical energy harnessing system, the step ofapplying comprising creating a short between an anode and a cathode ofthe energy unit; performing a plurality of measurements, using aplurality of pickup coil sensors at a respective plurality of differentlocations within the energy unit, of a response of the energy unit tothe applied signal; and processing the plurality of measurements toidentify the abnormality.
 2. The method of claim 1, the step of applyinga signal comprising applying an electrical signal to the energy unitwith a transmitter unit electrically connected with the energy unit. 3.The method of claim 1, the step of applying a signal comprising applyingelectromagnetic radiation to the energy unit.
 4. The method of claim 1,the step of applying including applying at least one voltage or currentpulse to the positive and negative ends of the energy unit.
 5. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising invoking a control measure to atleast a portion of the energy unit associated with the abnormality. 6.The method of claim 1, comprising identifying the abnormality in lessthan 10 milliseconds after applying the signal.
 7. The method of claim1, the abnormality being a short in an energy storage device in theenergy unit.
 8. The method of claim 1, the abnormality being a short inan electrical connection in the energy unit.
 9. The method of claim 1,the abnormality being a change in state of health of the energy unit.10. The method of claim 1, the step of processing comprising spatiallylocating the abnormality.
 11. The method of claim 10, the step ofspatially locating comprising utilizing information about configurationof the energy unit.
 12. The method of claim 1, the step of performingcomprising, at each respective location of the respective plurality ofdifferent locations, detecting the response via electromagneticinduction in a respective one of the plurality of pickup coil sensors.13. A method for abnormality detection in an energy unit, comprising:exposing the energy unit to an electromagnetic signal, wherein theenergy unit includes at least one pickup coil sensor positionedproximate the energy unit, the step of exposing comprising creating ashort between an anode and a cathode of the energy unit; and measuring,using the at least one pickup coil sensor, a signal induced in theenergy unit by the electromagnetic signal, thereby detecting theabnormality.
 14. The method of claim 13, the abnormality comprising ashort circuit in the energy unit or a change in state of health of theenergy unit.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the energy unitincludes a transmitter positioned proximate the energy unit forreceiving the electromagnetic signal, the step of exposing comprisingpassing a current through the transmitter or applying a voltage to thetransmitter.
 16. The method of claim 15, the transmitter comprising apickup coil.
 17. The method of claim 15, the passing step comprisingpassing one or more current pulses through the transmitter or applyingone or more voltage pulses to the transmitter.
 18. The method of claim13, the energy unit comprising at least one electrochemical cell. 19.The method of 18, the abnormality comprising a short circuit between twoor more components of the electrochemical cell.
 20. The method of claim19, the abnormality comprising a short circuit between any of an anodecurrent collector or anode active material coating and any of a cathodecurrent collector or cathode active material coating.
 21. The method ofclaim 13, the exposing step comprising generating the electromagneticsignal having a frequency selected from the range of 1 kHz to 10 GHz.22. The method of claim 13, the measuring step comprising measuring anelectrical signal induced in the energy unit in 10 milliseconds or lessafter the exposing step.
 23. The method of claim 13, the energy unitbeing in an operational condition during the exposing and measuringsteps, the operational condition comprising generating an electriccurrent or receiving an applied electric current.
 24. The method ofclaim 13, the energy unit being in a non-operational condition duringthe exposing and measuring steps, the non-operational conditioncomprising an open circuit condition.
 25. The method of claim 13, theenergy unit being in a state of partial manufacture during the exposingand measuring steps.
 26. The method of claim 13, the energy unit beingin a state of completed manufacture during the exposing and measuringsteps.
 27. The method of claim 13, the electromagnetic signal generatedby a second energy unit proximate to the energy unit.
 28. The method ofclaim 13, the exposing step comprising exposing the energy unit to anelectromagnetic signal transmitted through an electricallynon-conductive medium.
 29. A method for detecting an abnormality in anenergy unit, comprising: applying a signal to the energy unit, theenergy unit comprising at least one of: an electrical energy storagesystem, an electrochemical energy storage system, an electrical energyharnessing system, and an electrochemical energy harnessing system, thestep of applying comprising creating a short between an anode and acathode of the energy unit; performing a plurality of measurements at arespective plurality of different locations within the energy unit, of aresponse of the energy unit to the applied signal, the step ofperforming a plurality of measurements comprising, at each location ofthe plurality of different locations, detecting the response using arespective one of a plurality of pickup coil sensors positioned at theeach location of the respective plurality of different locations withinthe energy unit; and processing the plurality of measurements toidentify the abnormality.
 30. The method of claim 1, wherein the appliedsignal is a time varying signal, the step of performing comprisingperforming the plurality of measurements of a response of the energyunit to the applied time varying signal.
 31. The method of claim 30,wherein the response includes a varying induced electromagnetic field.32. The method of claim 1, the step of applying comprising indirectlyapplying the signal to the energy unit.
 33. The method of claim 1, theenergy unit being in an operational condition during the applying andperforming steps, the operational condition comprising generating anelectric current or receiving an applied electric current.
 34. Themethod of claim 1, the energy unit being in a non-operational conditionduring the applying and performing steps, the non-operational conditioncomprising an open circuit condition.
 35. The method of claim 1, themethod for determining state of health of said energy unit.
 36. Themethod of claim 1, the method for determining state of charge of saidenergy unit.